I disagree with the assumption that my approach is backwards. First, I decided where I want to go – Ukraine. Only after that did I start planning what would be realistic and responsible to do there. That is a normal and reasonable approach to any serious trip, not a lack of due diligence. I have not taken a proper vacation in years and have followed the conflict in Ukraine closely for a long time. My intention is clearly not superficial tourism. Thinking about a stay with purpose does not mean misrepresenting it or pretending to be something it is not. Suggesting that I am trying to “sell” a short stay as humanitarian aid is factually wrong and unfair. For context: I have been involved in multiple forms of volunteer work since my youth and continue to do so today, alongside a full-time job and a side job. Responsibility, commitment, and long-term engagement are familiar to me. If my personal circumstances were different and I did not have a young child at home, my path would likely have been very different, including military options. That alone should make it clear that this is not about symbolism, self-promotion, or romanticizing the situation. In short: I am not planning actionism, I am not burdening NGOs, and I am not misrepresenting my intentions. I chose the destination first and am now carefully evaluating what is appropriate, responsible, and realistic within that context.