"How much more can we donate?" asks one injured Ukrainian soldier

Since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine nearly four years ago, Pavlo Martsenyuk has lost track of the friends and fellow soldiers who have fallen. The 34-year-old emphasizes his commitment to preserving the memories of those he served alongside.

Speaking from Unbroken Hospital, a rehabilitation center in Lviv, Martsenyuk shared with CBS News the long and painful journey of recovering from injuries sustained when an anti-tank mine explosion left him blind in both eyes. "I couldn't calm my thoughts; everything was overwhelming," he said. "Things only started to improve once I actively focused on my mental health."

After a year of treatment, including facial reconstruction surgery, he is learning to navigate what he describes as "an entirely new life." Martsenyuk's main focus now is transitioning to civilian life and being a role model for his children. His experience also highlights the human cost of Russia's invasion and the lack of understanding about Ukraine's struggle internationally.

In parallel diplomatic efforts, Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump, and special envoy Steve Witkoff were scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss a U.S.-supported peace proposal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy continues meetings with European leaders to secure ongoing defense support. One major challenge in negotiations is Ukraines opposition to proposals suggesting territorial concessions to Russia as part of a peace deal. Trump has insisted that the plan includes substantial concessions from Russia, including halting military actions and refraining from further land seizures.

Zelenskyy and several European leaders argue that ceding occupied Ukrainian territory would reward aggression and set a dangerous precedent. Martsenyuk, reflecting on the personal and national cost of the conflict, questioned how much more Ukraine can sacrifice. "We have already given up territory we have given part of ourselves. How much more can we give?"

European leaders, mindful of 20th-century history, caution against appeasement. Polands Donald Tusk emphasized in late October that pressure should be applied on Russia to halt aggression, not on Ukraine to make concessions. Martsenyuk echoed these concerns, noting that history offers lessons that should not be ignored.

Despite the ongoing human toll, Martsenyuk recognizes the necessity of international support for Ukraine to withstand and ultimately repel Russian forces. While official casualty figures remain undisclosed, estimates suggest between 60,000 and 100,000 Ukrainian soldiers have died since the invasion began. "Pity is not needed," he said. "Understanding is needed. There is very little understanding."

Author: Sophia Brooks