War is more than bullets and missiles. It’s propaganda and misinformation. It’s the loss of family and social ties. It’s psychological trauma. I seek healing while receiving news every day that throws me back into the center of the catastrophe. I scroll through the feeds of friends and family and realize how many people have already been affected. All of this mirrors the tremendous impact of HIV stigma in the world.

My name is Rostek, I am 46. I found myself in Berlin, seeking refuge from the full-scale invasion that engulfed my homeland. I was born during Soviet times and grew up during my country’s quest for independence. In my childhood years, I became an activist, already speaking out against the communist system. During my university years, I lived in Poland, where I spent ten years obtaining three higher education degrees. It was during my time there that I immersed myself in a diverse community where friends with HIV became a regular part of my life.

Despite my knowledge of HIV, I was surprised when I found out about my own positive status. The initial shock and stress of the diagnosis pushed me to dive deeper into understanding the virus, its treatment, and the scientific processes associated with it. As I struggled with my health, I became more involved in the community of people living with HIV, receiving solidarity and support, and realizing it was time to give back in kind.

Over the years, I continued to support vulnerable HIV communities and fight against all forms of discrimination. I provided advice to various political figures on human rights, gender equality, and anti-discrimination issues. Despite my awareness of socio-political processes, the start of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine caught me off guard.

Arriving in Berlin, filled with Ukrainians seeking protection from the war, I saw the problems they faced, which I also encountered, and understood the great need to create an organization for HIV-positive Ukrainians in Germany to assist HIV-positive people forced to move from Ukraine because of the war. Through our organization, we provide a lifeline for those in need of support.

I remain deeply connected to Ukraine, continuing to contribute to Ukraine's Euro-Atlantic integration and its approach to EU membership. In my current activities, I focus on testifying about those affected by HIV and the war. We need greater visibility, public and political participation, awareness of HIV spread, solidarity, and support.

Despite everything happening around us, I remember that we want not only to survive but to live full lives. To be able to say, "We are here, hear our voice." This act of declaration, testimony, and visibility is important because when people see you, they understand that your problems can and should be solved. You break the silence, setting a positive example for others. You help others understand that HIV, like the war, concerns everyone.