"She taught others to save lives": Red Cross instructor killed in Russian strike on Odesa

Olena Arkhipova, a volunteer and first aid instructor from the Ukrainian Red Cross, was killed in a Russian attack on Odesa on the evening of 16 July.

Source: Ukrainian Red Cross

Details: The Red Cross said Arkhipova was rushing to a shelter with her children when Russia launched the strike. She was raising them on her own.

Arkhipova joined the Ukrainian Red Cross as a first aid instructor in 2023 and qualified as an instructor in animal first aid this year. She had been due to begin training on 17 July to become an instructor for people with physical disabilities.

The organisation's representatives say Olena conducted training for State Emergency Service workers, National Police officers, adults and children. She also volunteered regularly.

Quote: "For colleagues and friends, Olena will forever remain a vibrant, sincere and responsible person who was always willing to help. She taught others to save lives and every day proved by her own example that humanity, compassion and care can change the world."

Background: Russia carried out a missile strike on a residential building in Odesa on the evening of 16 July. Fires broke out in the city. Two people were killed in the attack. Ten people, including children, were also injured.

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