Ukrainian soldier recovers from drone attack at Jaunķemeri

Ukrainian soldier Oleg Omelchenko has been recovering for four months at Jaunķemeri, a rehabilitation facility, after suffering serious injuries in the war, LSM reported. Born in Odesa, Omelchenko can move independently in a wheelchair and hopes to return home for his son’s birthday.

“It is good here, the rehabilitation is good. Here I felt the results and stood up,” he said.

Omelchenko was injured in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region while returning from a position in a pickup truck. He said a drone followed the vehicle and exploded after the soldiers jumped out and ran to safety. Shrapnel struck his back, arms and legs.

After undergoing surgery and treatment in Ukraine, he was transferred to Jaunķemeri. He said the treatment in Latvia was carefully monitored, with specialists evaluating each exercise and checking how he lay down and stretched his leg.

“The physiotherapist here is Agate, and Lana works with my hand. I am very grateful that I came to Agate. She does a lot to get me fully back on my feet,” he said.

Omelchenko said his son is waiting for him at home but still does not know that he uses a wheelchair.

Ukrainian soldiers returning from the front need both medical and psychological support to regain their strength and treat physical and mental trauma caused by the war, LSM reported.

LSM and the charity organisation Ziedot.lv have launched a campaign called “Together with Ukraine in thoughts and deeds” to support comprehensive rehabilitation for Ukrainian soldiers. Donations can be made until September 13 by calling 90204113, with a call costing five euros including VAT, or online through Ziedot.lv.