Ninety-year-old Aliya Aliyeva survived the January 1 attack by Shaheds on Kyiv, showcasing the strength of the Ukrainian spirit: "This is our home."

On New Year's Eve 2025, the capital of Ukraine was once again struck by Russian kamikaze drones of the "Shahed" type. The attack resulted in considerable destruction: debris demolished two floors of a residential building in the Pechersk district and caused damage to the infrastructure. Among the victims was 90-year-old Kyiv resident Aliya Aliyeva, who, despite her age and the dangers, chose to remain in her hometown, refusing to evacuate since the onset of the full-scale invasion.

https://akcenty.com.ua/life/77621-90-letnyaya-aliya-alieva-perezhila-ataku-shahedov-1-yanvarya-na-kiev-i-pokazala-moshch-ukrainskogo-duha-eto-nash-dom2025-01-03 09:35:08

“New Year’s Miracle”

As Ms. Aliya recounted, she had planned to celebrate the New Year at home, and her eldest son, Vagif Aliyev, came to visit her. He suggested taking her to his daughters and great-grandchildren, but she declined. Consequently, Vagif decided to stay with her. However, Ms. Aliya insisted that her son return to his own home.

“When I heard the explosion, I only thought about my loved ones”

Aliya Aliyeva woke up to a powerful explosion around six in the morning. “My first thought was whether everyone was alive. My head was spinning, and my heart felt like it was jumping out of my chest,” she shared.

Thanks to the rescuers who promptly arrived at the scene, Ms. Aliya managed to avoid serious injuries. However, the shock and devastation she witnessed left a profound impact.

Indomitable Spirit and Loyalty to Ukraine

Aliya Aliyeva, originally from Baku, moved to Kyiv in the early 1980s. Her eldest son was born in Ashgabat, while her granddaughters and great-grandchildren were born in Ukraine and consider it their homeland.

“I have a house in Baku and in Ashgabat, and I could leave at any moment, but I couldn’t abandon the place where my family lives. This is my land, and my heart is here,” she says.

“I even suggested to Vagif in the early days of the full-scale invasion to take the granddaughters and great-grandchildren abroad, but he refused. He said that Ukraine is our home, and we must stay here to support our country and help rebuild it. Importantly, he has never left Ukraine during the war. I am very proud that my children and grandchildren share this love for our land and remain loyal to Ukraine, even in the toughest times,” adds Aliya Aliyeva.

As a result of the New Year’s attack in Kyiv, seven people were injured, and two lost their lives. Debris from drones damaged residential buildings and infrastructure. That night became yet another trial for Ukrainians, who, despite everything, do not lose faith in their country.

Aliya Aliyeva’s son, Vagif Aliyev, is a well-known Kyiv developer who has made significant contributions to the development of urban infrastructure. That evening, fate decided that his life would be spared thanks to his mother, who insisted he return home.

This story is yet another testament to the strength of the Ukrainian people, who remain courageous, indomitable, and full of faith in victory, even in the most challenging times.