Letter from Kyiv

Iryna Polstiankina of the Horowitz Competition writes from a city at war

Dear Friends,

Life in Kyiv, the city that is being attacked from land and air by the russian army is difficult and dangerous. My schedule depends on the air raid sirens and curfews. Russians especially like to attack at night or early morning, therefore, it is impossible to sleep at night. All of my colleagues follow the rule of "two walls" and try to sleep on the floor. We are constantly stressed and alert, which, in turn, has bad effects on our overall health. 
I am lucky that my apartment is on the first floor. Me and my husband spent only one night in the basement of a neighboring building. However, people whose apartments are on the top floors have to spend their time in the basements or subway stations. 
My neighborhood, (Babyi Yar), was hit by the russian rockets. Thankfully, my house is ok. Thanks to our Mayor, Klitschko, we have water, gas, and electricity. Grocery stores work special reduced hours. We have limited supply, but we have enough right now and we try to save our water and food. Some means of public transportation work, but in a very reduced capacity.