Writes Arhs, Content Writer, Headline Diplomat eMagazine
There is a tragedy unfolding in Ukraine. Geopolitics, foreign interests and the aggression of the Russian government has resulted in innocent blood being shed. There is no room for such actions in a civilized world. Due to this, calls for peace and the condemning of war practices are being shouted from all corners of the globe.
Yet the drums of war beat on. While people march in the streets and shout “No War!” in their efforts to stand with the people of Ukraine, people are fleeing the violence that is being visited upon their neighbours and their homeland. There are calls for European solidarity in the face of these horrible events.
An Urgent Call for Peace
There is an urgent need for peace. The amount of civilian deaths is staggering. According to the United Nations, more than 50 children have been killed in the bombings of Ukrainian cities. Total casualties are reported to be 726… and these are only the deaths that have been reported.
That is 726 lives lost. The hopes, dreams and aspirations of young adults just starting their lives, husbands and wives ready to start a family or, the saddest of all, children with their whole lives ahead of them. The unnecessary loss of life is almost too much to comprehend. This is why there are desperate calls for peace.
These people have nothing to do with geopolitics. They aren’t involved in the power struggles of the political elite and yet they are the ones that paid with their lives. It is unconscionable.
The Great Escape
All of the countries bordering Ukraine are feeling the effects of this conflict. Millions of Ukrainians have been displaced as they flee the conflict on their home soil. They leave behind their homes, their businesses and everything else they have worked to attain. They take with them only the most important parts of their lives. Their family, their pets and anything else they can carry that they deem worth the effort.
Millions more are displaced within the borders of Ukraine as they try to find a safe place to hopefully ride out the storm. The world is watching and has denounced the actions of the Russians. The global community wants no war and are condemning the war practices on display by Putin and his military. European solidarity with Ukraine shows that they stand with the people and will aid them in this terrible time.
How Can You Help?
You may be watching and wondering how you can stand with the people of Ukraine. While the situation may seem bleak, there are actions you can take to make a real difference on the ground for those most affected by the conflict.
- Donate Money
There are many programs and organizations that you can donate money to that will help make a difference. Your money can provide aid, food, water and shelter for those that need it most.
- Provide Volunteer Time
Organizations that do relief work need more than just money to distribute these resources, they need volunteer time. If you want to help, find an organization that needs help and offer up your skills and time to make an impact in any way that you can.
- Speak to your Elected Representatives
Much of the world has the privilege of living in representative democracies. Speak to your elected representatives to see what actions they are taking or what conversations they are having to ensure that your country stands with the people of Ukraine.
No War! Stand with the People!
Condemning war practices and donating time and money is a great start but more is necessary. There is a strong call for European solidarity and there needs to be peace. Now! The best option for everyone that would result in an end to the killing would be a resolution to end the war. There is no time to wait. The time to act is now!
Featured photo by Polina Tankilevitch, Pexels