In a stark reminder of the ongoing brutality in Ukraine, a Calgary humanitarian volunteer suffered serious injuries during a Russian missile strike in Kyiv on Canada Day. The attack, which targeted civilian infrastructure including a children’s hospital, came as Canadians celebrated their national holiday thousands of kilometers away.
James Thiessen, a 29-year-old Calgarian who traveled to Ukraine in April to provide humanitarian assistance, was caught in the devastating bombardment while delivering medical supplies in the Ukrainian capital. According to family sources, Thiessen sustained multiple shrapnel wounds and a traumatic head injury when a Russian missile struck less than 100 meters from his location.
“James has always been driven by a desire to help those in need, regardless of personal risk,” said Marianne Thiessen, his mother, speaking from her Calgary home. “When he saw the images coming out of Ukraine, he felt compelled to do something tangible rather than just watch from afar.”
The July 1st attack involved approximately 20 missiles and 20 drones launched against Kyiv, according to Ukrainian officials. The assault damaged Okhmatdyt Children’s Hospital, killing at least two people and injuring dozens more, including several children. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the strike as “another Russian war crime” in a conflict that has increasingly targeted civilian infrastructure.
Thiessen, who previously worked as a paramedic in Alberta, had been volunteering with an international aid organization distributing medical supplies and helping train local first responders in emergency care techniques. His colleagues describe him as dedicated and fearless in his commitment to humanitarian work.
“This wasn’t James’s first humanitarian mission, but it was certainly the most dangerous,” explained David Morley, director of the aid organization Thiessen works with. “Despite our safety protocols, the indiscriminate nature of Russia’s attacks means civilians and aid workers are constantly at risk.”
The Canadian government has condemned the attack and is providing consular assistance to Thiessen and his family. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly issued a statement expressing Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine while confirming diplomatic officials are working to ensure Thiessen receives appropriate medical care.
“We are exploring options to evacuate Mr. Thiessen to a medical facility in Poland or Germany where he can receive specialized care,” said a spokesperson from Global Affairs Canada. “His condition is serious but stable, and our priority is ensuring he receives the best possible treatment.”
This incident highlights the growing danger faced by international aid workers in Ukraine as Russia intensifies its campaign against civilian targets. According to the United Nations, at least 11 humanitarian workers have been killed in Ukraine since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022, with dozens more injured.
Military analysts suggest the timing of the attack on Canada Day may not have been coincidental, as Russia has previously targeted symbolic dates to maximize psychological impact. Canada has been a steadfast supporter of Ukraine, providing military equipment, financial aid, and training to Ukrainian forces.
“Russia’s strategy increasingly involves attacking civilian morale and infrastructure,” explained Dr. Maria Popova, a political science professor specializing in Eastern European politics at McGill University. “By targeting hospitals and striking on dates significant to Ukraine’s allies, they’re sending a deliberate message about their disregard for international norms.”
The Calgary Ukrainian community has rallied around Thiessen’s family, organizing a prayer vigil and fundraising efforts to support his recovery. Local Ukrainian-Canadian organizations have also used the incident to renew calls for increased military support to Ukraine’s air defense systems.
“James represents the best of Canadian values – courage, compassion, and a willingness to stand up for what’s right,” said Orysia Boychuk, president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress’s Alberta Provincial Council. “His sacrifice reminds us why supporting Ukraine isn’t just about geopolitics – it’s about protecting innocent lives.”
As Thiessen begins what doctors describe as a lengthy recovery process, his family has requested privacy while expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support. They’ve established a fund to help with medical expenses and eventual rehabilitation costs once he returns to Canada.
As this conflict approaches its third year with no resolution in sight, we must ask ourselves: what responsibility do nations like Canada bear not only to support Ukraine’s defense but also to protect the brave civilians who risk everything to provide humanitarian assistance in war zones?
