War and Welcoming Arms: Ukraine's Animal Sanctuary Amidst Conflict

Amidst the turmoil of war-torn Ukraine, directors Jeremy Chilnick and Viacheslav Rakovskyi turn their cameras towards the Green Grove Farm and its owners, Zhenya and Anatolij Pilipenko, who provide a beacon of hope in grave times. The former city dwellers embarked on their rural journey aiming to enjoy a simpler, traffic-free lifestyle, but destiny led them to a profoundly noble cause in the heart of the battlefield.

The Pilipenkos’ property, originally meant to serve as a cheese-making, farming haven, morphed into a colossal shelter for abandoned and injured animals affected by the ongoing conflict. Starting with just three dozen goats they agreed to look after for their drafted neighbor, the numbers spiraled into housing over 1,200 animals including cows, pigs, and peacocks, brought in by the military or animal welfare organizations.

Amongst the countless creatures saved, Mamulya, the donkey, whose hoof was shattered by a mine explosion, symbolizes their mission-reminding us of random acts of cruelty and compassion within the human realm. Their commitment extends far beyond shielding the animals from war-torn realities. As they ensure state-of-the-art medical treatments for the animals, the farm starts attracting attention from diffident borders, turning Green Grove into a sanctuary for war survivors, both animal and human.

Beyond rescue and treatment of animals, the couple and the farm’s young veterinarian, Natalia, venture into dangerous zones to save stranded creatures, often under fire; Anatolij once referred to a mission as "saving Private Foal"- their humor not completely dulled by the gravity of their situation.

A serendipitous achievement, as the couple notes the farm's transformative effect on its visitors-displaced people, soldiers returning home, and families of fallen soldiers. Green Grove stands not just as a safe haven for animals but as a rehabilitation center and beacon of hope for Ukraine's war-wearied citizens.

Anatolij's propensity to save animals over humans occasionally makes him question his priorities. His explanation, albeit unneeded, is simple yet profound- “They are Ukrainian animals.” His statement echoes a universal truth-animals know no flags, wage no wars but are sadly, casualties of human strife.