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Nina Rakowsky

Nina Rakowsky is second generation Ukrainian American from New Jersey. Raised in the diaspora, she is a member of PLAST, Ukrainian Scouting organization, and The Ukrainian Society at The Ohio State University. Nina is a rising senior at Ohio State, where she is pursuing a degree in International Relations and Diplomacy. Inspired by the contributions made by her ancestors and by the bravery of Ukrainians fighting for freedom today, Nina chose to volunteer with DOKO to play her part in supporting Ukraine and its people in its ongoing fight for sovereignty.
  • American Veterans’ Uniforms Find New Purpose in Ukraine

    American Veterans’ Uniforms Find New Purpose in Ukraine

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    by

    Nina Rakowsky

    In the wake of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, countless Ukrainian-Americans swiftly mobilized to provide their support. Among them, Paul Shmotolokha, a Ukrainian-American veteran of the United States military, leveraged his cultural heritage, military experience, and professional career to deliver critical assistance to Ukrainian defenders on the ground.

  • From Kyivan Rus to Special Operations: The Evolution of Idy na Vas

    From Kyivan Rus to Special Operations: The Evolution of Idy na Vas

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    by

    Nina Rakowsky

    The phrase Idy na Vas, meaning “I want to come to you,” originated in Kyivan Rus in 964 and was first articulated by the son of Knyahynia Olha, King Sviatoslav the Brave, who is historically noted for his audacious and extensive military campaigns. Prior to initiating a new conquest, Sviatoslav would dispatch the message ‘Idy…