Latvian combat medic Sarmīte Cīrule was injured this week during a drone strike on the front lines in Ukraine. She spoke to Latvian Television’s programme “Pasaules panorāma” about her experience and recovery, according to public media outlet lsm.lv.
“I got away with a hole in my backside. There are shrapnel wounds, but really—we survived. That’s a very good thing. It was honestly a miracle,” she later reported. “I’m smiling because I’m happy. I’m alive!”
Sarmīte was wounded on Sunday morning, while she and her fellow medics were heading out to rescue a severely injured Ukrainian soldier. At the time, she recorded a video report, unsure if she would reach safety—or survive at all. The video was intended as a testimony of what had happened, a record that could later serve as evidence. Once she reached the hospital, it became clear she was no longer in immediate danger.
Sarmīte is now recovering and said that the doctors and nurses caring for her have been wonderful. The arm injured in the attack is healing quickly. However, the blast was so powerful that her eardrum was damaged, and it’s still unclear whether surgery will be necessary.
“I’m grateful to be alive and able to continue my work. I won’t run home—I’ll stay. I’ll continue to be here in Ukraine and help as much as I can,” she said. “Because the experience I’ve gained—I can continue to share it here, and it’s very much needed.”
The medic emphasized that the incident is yet another reminder that Russia’s army makes no distinction when attacking—civilians, medics, it doesn’t matter. She herself has already buried several of her colleagues.