JAKARTA - Vitaliy Mykolenko could not hide his feelings of anxiety about the condition of his parents living in Ukraine. This was followed by a Russian attack that left many citizens under siege.
Reporting from the Daily Star, Russia invaded Ukraine following the decision of the president, Vladimir Putin to send military personnel to two regions; Luhansk and Donetsk.
On Thursday, February 24, Russia finally actually attacked Ukraine. Several areas of the capital Kyiv were bombarded, several strategic locations have also been occupied by Russian military forces.
News of the tense situation in Ukraine reached the ears of Everton's Vitaliy Mykolenko, who immediately worried about the situation of his parents and family in his home country.
Mykolenko then voiced his concern in a post on Instagram. He claimed that the Russian offensive had killed many civilians and his parents were under siege.
"I want the whole world to know that Russian soldiers are now killing civilians in all cities of Free Ukraine," Mykolenko wrote on Instagram.
"Russian media wrote that they were defending Donetsk and Luhansk but this is not true!!!! It's hard to hear the worried voices of my parents who are looking for opportunities to protect themselves, and help others and I can't help my parents. "
"I ask the whole world to help my homeland. I am proud to be Ukrainian. Glory to Ukraine," he wrote on Instagram.
Mykolenko, 22, only joined the Toffees from Dynamo Kyiv in the January transfer window. He signed a four-and-a-half year contract with the Merseyside club.
Understanding the difficult conditions facing Mykolenko, Everton have offered their full support to the defender. The club is even willing to help whatever the player needs.
But the same source said, Mykolenko so far has not asked for any help. The team's willingness to support the defender is not only a matter of humanitarian solidarity but also because of Mykolenko's commendable loyalty.
Since moving from Dynamo Kyiv last month, Mykolenko has been heavily involved for the Toffees and has made three appearances so far.
Despite the predicament, new Everton boss Frank Lampard is still unable to confirm whether the 21-cap Ukraine international will be available for Saturday's February 26 clash with Manchester City at the Etihad.
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