Background & Mission
Andrea Cisternino, an Italian by origin, has lived in Ukraine since around 2009.
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Before becoming a rescuer, he was a fashion photographer.
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He married a Ukrainian woman, and together they founded the Rifugio Italia KJ2, a large animal sanctuary north of Kyiv.
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Over the years, the shelter has grown to host about 400 animals, including stray dogs, cats, farm animals (cows, horses, sheep), and more.
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When War Broke Out
When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Cisternino made a conscious, deeply emotional choice: he would not leave his refuge.
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He said publicly, “I will die here for my animals … it’s 400 guests who deserve to be protected at any cost.”
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He explained that moving all 400 animals would be nearly impossible — logistically and emotionally.
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Conditions at the Shelter During the Conflict
Combat Nearby: Cisternino and his team have reported hearing heavy gunfire, artillery, seeing Russian helicopters, and even MIG jets above.
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Fear & Loss: In his interviews, he shared how difficult it was to sleep: “the walls tremble … the smell of gunpowder is very strong.”
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He said one of the dogs died “of heartbreak” during the early days of the invasion because of the terror.
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Scarcity of Supplies: After the invasion began, the area around the refuge was reportedly occupied, making resupply extremely difficult.
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At one point, Cisternino said they were without food and water:
“Siamo senza acqua, né cibo da più di 24 ore … 453 animali … rischiamo di morire di fame e di sete.”
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Aid Arrives: With help from ENPA (an Italian animal-protection organization) and support from Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, they managed to deliver 12 tons of supplies — including pet food, medicines, human food, and water.
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Still, reaching the shelter was very dangerous.
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Rationing: Because of limited supplies, they began rationing — prioritizing animals.
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Motivation & Philosophy
Cisternino says his decision to stay is not about courage, but about love.
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He sees the animals as innocent and voiceless beings who depend fully on him.
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His sanctuary work wasn’t just about saving pets — he also rescued cows, horses, and goats from neglect or slaughter.
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Before the war, he had already prepared: during earlier tensions (like in 2014 in Donbas), he stored extra provisions because he had a sense something might escalate one day.
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Personal Risk & Recognition
At times, he lost communication with the outside world; there were hours or even days when they couldn’t get food or water.
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Despite Italian authorities urging him to leave, he refused: “If I left now, they (the animals) would starve.”
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Over time, he has received a lot of international support: animal rights groups, individuals, and the Italian government have acknowledged his work.
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He later shared his story with young people in San Patrignano, a rehabilitation community in Italy, emphasizing that his stand is a moral duty.
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Reflections on the Risks
Cisternino admits it’s risky: he’s not only protecting the animals, but also putting himself in danger.
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He worries about what might happen if the refuge is directly attacked or cut off.
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But he also says he’s seen “miracles” — that despite everything, they were never directly raided, even though they could have been.
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He expressed gratitude to those who help, and also a firm belief in the duty to care for life, no matter how powerless that life seems in a war.
Why His Story Matters
Animal Welfare in War: Cisternino’s story draws attention to a group often forgotten in conflict — animals.
Moral Example: He’s become a symbol of empathy and responsibility, showing that “saving lives” isn’t just about people.
Community & Solidarity: Through his calls for help, many people and organizations have rallied behind him and the sanctuary.
Resilience: He represents the idea that even in the darkest times, one person can make a huge difference.
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