On February 24, at 5am Kyiv time Russia started a full-scale war against Ukraine. That morning Ukrainians woke up to the sound of sirens and explosions.
Russian troops have destroyed many civilian houses, stores, petrol stations and regional administration buildings mostly in the eastern, northern and southern parts of Ukraine.
People have had to leave their homes and move to a safer place. Some of them found shelter in other parts of Ukraine but figures from the United Nations (UN) show over 1.5 million have fled the country since the Russian invasion began.
A variety of Ukrainian and international agencies are appealing for support and there are various ways people can help.
Donations
The UK Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) has launched an appeal for Ukraine and the UK government have pledged to match donations up to £25 million. DEC is made up of 15 member charities such as the British Red Cross and works with local partners in Ukraine to deliver humanitarian aid and medical assistance.
Ukrainian banks have also set up funds that allow people to donate to support Ukraine’s army. NBU (National Bank of Ukraine) has opened a special account to raise funds and Mono Bank accepts SEPA transfers and once a day, they transfer that money to the single account at the National Bank of Ukraine.
The Return Alive Foundation has also helped Ukrainian armed forces since 2014.
Send humanitarian supplies
Shipping service NOVA Poshta Global delivers humanitarian help from their warehouses to Ukraine. If you want to help, volunteers can take or send different things to one of their international warehouses and they will send them to those who are in need.
Also, The UAL Women in Media Society are working on a way to organise some form of humanitarian aid and material support that will be transported to Ukraine. You can contact that society via Instagram or email them: ualwomeninmedia@gmail.com
Additionally, there is a Global Support Fund “With Ukraine”, set up by the Ukrainian Embassy in the UK. They accept donations as well as humanitarian and medical aid or other essential supplies.
Join a protest in your city
Your voice is important. Demonstrations are being organised in various locations so look out for information.
Post on social media and sign petitions
By posting information on your social media accounts about the war in Ukraine, you can spread news of what is happening. However, be careful and always check all information before posting. Remember to use only official websites as your sources.
By signing petitions, you can help Ukrainians to fight just from your phone or laptop wherever you are.
Megan Kelly
Maurizio Kayonjo