My name is Mariia Pankova. I am a Ukrainian documentary filmmaker and volunteer working along the frontlines in Eastern Ukraine. In early November, I traveled to the US with Johnny Rogers, director of Ukrainian Relief Fund 501(c)3, on a volunteer mission to raise awareness and support for Ukraine. On November 17th, 2025, while passing through Colorado on our way to a URF charity event that we organised in New York, I was robbed at a Conoco gas station in Eagle. The total loss is almost eleven thousand dollars.
The loss included my camera equipment, mission cash, and all my documents — passport, ID, and credit cards. Most of what was taken was my camera gear — my tools to document the war and humanitarian work. Now I am in the U.S. with no documents, while someone is using my identity and belongings. We are working with a local detective, and Johnny and I are searching for information to find the thief. Without documents, I cannot return home. My flight will be cancelled, and I need financial support to resolve the paperwork, return safely, and rebuild my camera kit so I can continue documenting the truth in Ukraine. Two minutes at a Conoco station, and everything you have can be taken away from you. Thank you for your support.