When the war began, Serhii Gorodovenko had already been supporting UN operations in Ukraine for over a decade. A retired Colonel of the Ukrainian Air Force, he joined UNDSS in 2008 and has since offered security support to UN personnel operating in some of the country’s most dangerous environments. His colleague Artem Chystiak, based in Dnipro, is also marking nearly 10 years with the department.
Both serve as Associate Field Security Coordination Officers, working to keep UN personnel safe in one of the world’s most high-risk operational environments. We spoke with them about what drives them, what the world should know about UNDSS Ukraine, and the moments that showed just how critical their work is.
What keeps you motivated despite the risks and challenges of working in a war zone?
Serhii:
The sense of purpose in my work keeps me going. Knowing that I’m contributing to something important for my country is deeply fulfilling. Professionalism also drives me; maintaining a high standard of work, no matter the circumstances, is essential. My colleagues demonstrate resilience and dedication, which creates an environment of trust and motivation. In a war zone, every day brings new threats, but I don’t see obstacles as deterrents - I see them as challenges to overcome. I call myself a “problem killer.” That mindset keeps me focused. Over time, I’ve developed the strength to cope with stress and uncertainty. The support from my colleagues and family helps, and hope keeps me moving forward. I believe peace will return, and our efforts matter.
Artem:
We often say our job is to offer security support to people who make the world better or ensure the safety of humanitarian missions. For me, it's more straightforward. It’s a commitment to those we consider colleagues, friends, and family. My wife is part of the UN team, too, so this is deeply personal. I’m not always out on every mission, but I’m always on standby, ready to act quickly when needed. Maybe that’s what security really means, being present, prepared, and human.
If there’s one thing the world should know about UNDSS’s work in Ukraine, what would it be?
Serhii:
UNDSS Ukraine is likely the only team that has supported more than 20 IAEA expert missions to nuclear facilities during wartime — including rotations to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station.
Artem:
Some might say our work becomes a kind of addiction — to intensity, to the unknown. But after nearly 10 years, I see it more as a journey. It’s tough, yes, but also rewarding. Our job is to make sure people are safe, and that never gets old.
Was there a moment in the past three years that made you realize just how crucial UNDSS’s work is?
Serhii:
Two moments stand out. One was the 2024 IAEA rotation at Zaporizhzhia, carried out during active hostilities. The ceasefire had been broken, movement was restricted, but our team completed the mission safely. It was a clear reminder of the courage and professionalism this work requires. The other was the UN Secretary-General’s visit in March 2024. We coordinated all security arrangements in just one working day — something that would usually take five or six. It showed what we can achieve under pressure.
Artem:
One recent incident stands out. The UNDSS Dnipro team was providing Emergency Response support. But that time, the team came under attack, and the vehicle was damaged. People were disoriented, understandably. That’s why we were there.
It wasn’t just about technical security support — it was about standing with our colleagues and friends in that moment. When we said, “You’ll be home soon, safe and sound,” we meant it. Sometimes, I think UNDSS isn’t only about security — it’s also about connection, presence, and emotion.
