In Syrian opposition areas they know better than anyone what it is like to be bombed by the Russian army. Since 2015, the Russians have supported President Assad, who is therefore firmly in the saddle again.
Volunteers called the ‘White Helmets’ play an important role in rescuing victims of the Russian attacks. For years they have been removing the dead and injured from the rubble at the risk of their own lives. Hundreds of White Helmets were killed.
They also film evidence during their work. With GoPro cameras on their helmets, they collect material that can later be used as evidence.
When the rescue workers saw the first images from Ukraine, there was immediate recognition. Civilian targets and infrastructure including hospitals that are hit. The encirclement of cities. And so they wanted to do something. From Syria’s opposition area, they are now sharing their knowledge of saving victims after Russian bombing. In the hope that their unique experience with this common enemy will save lives in Ukraine.
A local team in Syria filmed the White Helmets as they made the instructional videos for Ukrainians. The videos are being shared with Ukrainian rescue workers and via social media. Check out how they do that and why:
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