Situation Update

For those of you who are not following the situation in Ukraine:
http://www.kyivpost.com/
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/ukraine-opposition-urges-continued-cease-fire/2014/01/23/dee9c4e6-848b-11e3-a273-6ffd9cf9f4ba_story.html
http://www.lemonde.fr/europe/visuel/2014/01/23/la-semaine-ou-kiev-s-est-embrasee_4353592_3214.html (in French, but the photos are very informative)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-25905031 (and other BBC stories)

As a PCV, I am not allowed to publicly express my opinion on matters of government. Especially, on the "situation." Due to the increase in violence in Kyiv and major cities in Ukraine, the PC have upped our alert status. We are not allowed to leave our sites until, a) the alert is lifted, or b) we are told to gather in preparation for evacuation. I would like for option a to be chosen, as would every single PCV I am in contact with. None of us want to leave. We all want to be here. We all want to teach here.

I find it very interesting to be in Ukraine, as this country takes her steps. Ukraine is a very young country, with several very powerful countries wanting it to ally with them. Ukraine is a crossroads country - a former USSR country, tucked in between the EU and Russia. I find it even more interesting, as I have always had a fascination with the Irish Uprising and the "Troubles." There are similarities between Ireland and Ukraine. They are both countries that earn their "friendly and hospitable" reputation. Countries that are very young countries as far as independence goes (I am older than Ukraine, by a few months), yet both with histories that stretch back to pre-Greco-Roman times. They are both countries that have suffered famines, yet come out even stronger. The further similarities will remain unsaid on a public forum.

I hope that anyone following this event keeps Ukraine and her amazing people in your thoughts throughout this troubling time.