A Co Antrim student, whose grandparents are still living in war-torn Ukraine, has told of his constant fears for the most vulnerable living in their home city.
Svetlana and Valera Logan, who are in their early 70s, are still living in their apartment in the southern Ukrainian city of Odessa, which has recently been the scene of Russian missile attacks.
Now their grandson Misha, who lives in Ballymoney, has organised A Night for Ukraine in the Deerstalker Bar in the Kelly’s complex in Portrush next month, to help people in the city of Odessa including his grandparents.
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The event on June 15 will feature a quiz, huge charity raffle and a DJ for the evening – as well as a video from Misha’s friends and family in Ukraine.
The 19-year-old, who is studying Law with French at Queen's University, told Belfast Live this is a very personal cause.
"My dad is originally from Ukraine and he has many relatives still living over there including his parents. It's been a very hard time even before the war broke out last February.
"Every day we have been urging my grandparents to come over here where they'll be safe and have somewhere to stay," Misha said.
"As an older generation their mentality is that Odessa is their home and they're not going to be pushed out so easily even with events still escalating and the situation getting quite bad where they live with bombings and missiles."
He added: "Ukrainians wake up every day, fearing for their lives and safety. Houses are destroyed, infrastructure is bombed and most importantly, people are injured and killed. All for what?
"You do worry a lot when you hear about people being killed and have to put into perspective that one day that could be a family member of mine."
The Night for Ukraine begins at 8pm on Thursday, June 15. Admission £10 for adults, £5 for children.
Misha added: "I am carrying out a fundraiser night in Portrush on June 15 at the Deerstalker Bar, Portrush. All funds are sent directly to my friends and family in the city of Odessa where they distribute the funds out to the most vulnerable.
"We held a similar fundraiser in April of last year which raised about £2,500 and at that stage we thought the war would be over by now.
"Even if we could make half that amount I'd be happy so anything is greatly appreciated by myself, my family in Odessa and all Ukrainians.
"Northern Ireland has been so supportive of Ukrainians over the past year, which has been really appreciated and we definitely feel the love.
"Please remember, supporting Ukraine is supporting a European brother or sister, a war in Ukraine affects all of Europe."
Anyone who is unable to attend on the night but would like to support Misha’s fundraiser can contact him via his Facebook page or Instagram or donate to his GoFundMe page .
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