Russian forces began attacking Ukraine Thursday morning following President Vladimir Putin’s announcement of a military operation in the country. Anton Ierofeiev, who works in the textile industry in Kyiv and Kam’yanske, said he fought for Ukraine against Russian forces in 2014. Ierofeiev said he is ready to go to the front lines once again to battle Russian forces.

“Of course, I understand that I should defend my rights, my country, my values and so on,” Ierofeiev said. “But it’s pretty hard to stay on the ground, a lot of wounds and dead people.”