In 2014 Macer Gifford left his job as a city trader to go and fight ISIS in Syria. Now he’s continuing his work as an international volunteer, this time in the Ukraine conflict. In an illuminating conversation, Macer tells Arthur about the parallels between wars in Syria and Ukraine, the role of international volunteers in the conflict, and his plans for a frontline medical unit to support the Ukrainian people.
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“I was there as the bombs began to fall, and seeing people huddling on the metro felt like the blitz.”

“A lot of international volunteers I was with in Syria are already on the ground in Ukraine.”

“My plan is to create a medical unit with volunteers, and to deploy them on the frontline to support both the Ukrainian military and civilians.”

“We’re going to see tactics similar to Syria where Russia bombs civilian centres into submission.”

“If the economic might of the west can bring Russia to its knees then we might get a negotiated settlement.”

“What Ukraine needs now is enthusiastic volunteers who are willing to defend every inch of territory.”


DOOMSDAY WATCH was written and presented by Arthur Snell, and produced by Robin Leeburn with Jacob Archbold. Theme tune and original music by Paul Hartnoll. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. DOOMSDAY WATCH is a Podmasters production.
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