When Russian soldiers marched into Ukraine on February 24 last year, the world watched on in disbelief.
Since then, missiles have rained down on Ukrainian cities and thousands of soldiers have been killed.
The country's Ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, grew up in western Ukraine and was in Kyiv when Russia invaded.
He is reflecting on the war on its 500th day as he returns to posting in Canberra after a brief visit home.
"It's very difficult for every Ukrainian because we wake up every morning (and) we read the news," Myroshnychenko said.
"We read the news from the frontline, we hear about destruction, we hear about death and we hear about misery."
While reports of military losses vary after 500 days, more than 9000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed and almost 16,000 have been injured.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's rapid advance saw large parts of the country captured in the first month but the Ukrainians have since won it back.
Their counter-attack continues in eastern Donetsk and south-eastern Zaporizhzhia.
"It's very difficult, especially now in the counter-offensive, we've been in there for four weeks now," Myroshnychenko said.
Australia's latest $100 million package provides 70 military vehicles, including 28 M113s.
However, the Hawkeye armoured mobility vehicle which Ukraine has expressed a desire and need for it.
"At the end of the day, it's up to the Australian government to decide what they can send and when," Myroshnychenko said.
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"Every day this war drags on, there is more death, more destruction, more misery, so it's important that we can get the kit and the tools to help us finish fast.
"Every dollar, every piece of equipment, any piece of medical supply… this is what is helping Ukraine to survive and we are very thankful for that."
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