A Ukrainian-American writer reflects on the parallels between war fatigue and gun violence in America. The author, who has grown accustomed to death’s proximity since moving to the US in 1997, recounts her experiences with air raids and gunfire in Ukraine during the ongoing conflict. She contrasts this with the prevalence of gun violence in the US, where an average of 125 people are killed by guns every day.
The writer draws parallels between the fear of dying in a war zone and the everyday experience of living with danger in America. She notes that the sense of vulnerability is not dissimilar between Ukraine and the US. The author shares personal anecdotes about her own experiences, including being robbed at gunpoint as a teenager and noticing guns concealed by students.
The writer argues that Americans need to be more attuned to the dangers around them and view them as preventable rather than an inevitable part of life. She laments the lack of freedom for everyday citizens to walk safely in cities, expect their children to be safe in schools, or dissent without fear of violence. The essay concludes by highlighting the urgent need for change to address this epidemic of gun violence.
Source: https://www.usnews.com/opinion/articles/2025-06-23/why-you-may-be-safer-in-kyiv-than-in-chicago