A black Mitsubishi Warrior sits in a parking lot, marked by mud stains and visible bullet damage that tell a story of its recent experiences. Oleg Lutsyk examines the driver’s door, noting the damage. “This could be from a shotgun,” he speculates, pointing to the larger holes. “But I believe some of these came from mortar shells or artillery rounds that pierced the vehicle.” He highlights smaller, rounder holes along the side and confirms, “These are definitely from shotguns.” The pick-up truck sustained direct hits while transporting Ukrainian troops during their conflict with Russia.

Oleg is part of the team repairing this vehicle so it can return to active duty. It was brought to Ukraine last year through a convoy organized by the Scottish charity Pickups for Peace and given to Ukraine’s 80th Air Assault Brigade, which played a significant role in the Kursk offensive as Ukrainian forces advanced into Russian-held territory. Remarkably, all soldiers who used this vehicle survived, although some may have sustained minor injuries.

The truck originated in Norfolk and was driven across Europe by a father-son duo, Keith and Ultan, who described their journey as an emotional rollercoaster. This vehicle is one of many donated to support Ukraine’s war effort; the charity has successfully transported 500 vehicles from various locations across Scotland and beyond. Another Scottish initiative, Jeeps for Peace, has contributed over 360 vehicles through multiple convoys. Additionally, Car for Ukraine has sent off-road vehicles from Wales to aid in the cause.

Recent convoys saw volunteers from Edinburgh, Perth, and Islay delivering vehicles, marking over 800 individuals who have participated in these missions—ranging in age from 18 to 85. These vehicles have been instrumental in rescue missions, evacuations, and anti-drone operations, reportedly saving thousands of lives on the front lines.

Andriy Kovalskyi oversees the logistics for these convoys at the Lviv District Military Administration. He emphasizes that while these vehicles are crucial for military operations, they also serve as symbols of solidarity as British citizens act as ambassadors for Ukraine during their journeys. Despite some safety concerns due to missile attacks affecting even relatively safe areas like Lviv, local authorities work diligently to facilitate these vital deliveries.

The car park outside Andriy’s office serves as a handover point where volunteers meet soldiers who will deploy these vehicles into battle shortly after receiving them. Derek Fleming notes that despite some vehicles being older models, they are well-maintained and ready for immediate action. Details reveal that several trucks have been assigned to various military units across Ukraine, proving their significance in ongoing combat scenarios.

One story highlights a Ford Ranger that was driven from Northumberland by two volunteers before being destroyed during a grenade attack near Pokrovsk. Fortunately, no one was harmed during its destruction—a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those on the front lines.

Andrey Ohinok is part of a group known as Jackie Chan Volunteers who deliver trucks directly into combat zones when traditional troops cannot reach them. Their mission centers on maintaining troop mobility to enhance survival odds in desperate situations.

Ira Savka plays a key role coordinating operations in Lviv and distributing over £3 million worth of aid delivered within these vehicles. The somber reality of war is reflected at local military cemeteries where flags flutter over graves—a poignant reminder of Ukraine’s ongoing sacrifices as they approach nearly 1,000 days of conflict.