Ukrainian woman who fled after Russia invaded is haunted by ongoing conflict
Margarita Bondarenko came to Kent after war broke out in Ukraine two years ago
Last updated 24th Feb 2024
Today marks 2 years since Russia invaded Ukraine.
In that time, thousands of Ukrainians have fled the war to find sanctuary in the UK, with many finding new homes in Kent.
Margarita Bondarenko has been living in Rainham since May 2022.
She told us that although she's made a fresh start here, she hasn't forgotten what's happening back home.
"This is what will never make your life as happy as it should be, because you kind of distance yourself from what's going on."
Worrying about the ongoing conflict has affected Margaritas sleep.
"I found myself in a situation where I couldn't sleep, reading all the news. Now I'm trying to cope with it because I have a daughter, I need to care about her."
She hopes the "bad dream" will end soon and she can return home to Ukraine.
The government announced on the 18th February that Ukrainians who arrived in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine scheme could apply for an 18 month extension to their visas, allowing them to stay until September 2026.
Today, three prime ministers and the European Commission president are in Kyiv to show a united front against Russia, as the conflict looks set to continue.