The news that Russia had launched air strikes in Ukraine has rippled across the world, and with it, a sense of shock, disbelief and fear has been felt by us all. However you’re coping with the stress of this new world crisis – whether you can’t tear yourself away from the constant updates, or are taking time away from social media – our responses to this crisis must be universal. We must act. Our immediate support and solidarity is vital, but often the enormity of the issue can leave us feeling helpless and overwhelmed.  Unsure of where to start? Don’t worry! Below we detail four ways that we can support Ukraine. This guide compiles a list of resources that offers numerous options to suit all capacities and abilities. The most important thing? That we simply do something. 

Attend a Peace Protest

Across the world, people are uniting to protest the invasion of Ukraine. These demonstrations show our support and solidarity to those currently under attack. This visible form of resistance also speaks to the leaders of our own nations and shows them that their constituents demand justice and action. This article includes details of all the protests taking place over the upcoming days and weeks. Search for a demonstration happening near you, here. 

Use Our Voice 

We recognize that for many people, physical protests are not always safe or practicable. However, there are multiple other ways to actively contribute. One of the most accessible forms of action is only a click away – social media. When advocating online, it’s vital that we do so responsibly and don’t inadvertently cause further harm. Some tips to navigating activism via social media include: 

• Spread only verified information from verified sources. Some verified sources include: Official Ukraine Twitter, Official Ukraine Instagram, Official Ukraine Website, Kyiv Independent and NY Time’s minutely updates
• Don’t repost, or retweet information from Russian sources due to risk of propaganda
• Similarly, don’t share any information about the movement of Ukraine Armed forces, as this may risk their safety
• Use hashtags responsibly. Currently, commonly used hashtags include: #StandWithUkraine #UkaineUnderAttack #SupportUkraine #StopRussianAgression #RussiainvadedUkraine
• Follow verified accounts to support the movement and access accurate information. On Instagram these include: 
  • @Ukraine.Ua
  • @UkrainsInSolidarity 
  • @Razom.For.Ukraine
  • @SaveLife.In.UA
  • @CaritasUkraine

On Twitter these include:

• @OlgaToriuk (Twitter)
• @Ukraine (Twitter)
• @KyivIndependent (Twitter)

Donate to Ukrainian Organisations

There are many charities and community groups who are working tirelessly on the ground to support the most vulnerable. Whilst many may not have financial capacity, those of us who do can support these causes by donating money.  Here we have listed organizations who would benefit from your financial support: 

• Lifeline Support – Ukraine’s first suicide prevention hotline, mobilized in response to alarming rates of veteran suicide. Lifeline offer psychological support to those impacted by the crisis
• Razom – Razom is a service where qualified war medics teach civilians first aid, tactical medical and training and provide medical supplies
• Caritas – Meets the urgent humanitarian needs of those affected by hostilities, natural disasters and other traumatic events
• Kyiv Pride – Community organisation supporting members of the LGBT+ community in Ukraine
• Fight for Fight – An organisation providing aid to Ukrainians with disabilities during the crisis 
• Safe Live – Supports veterans with rehabilitation and provides relief for the families of Ukrainian soldiers 
• Korporatsiya Monstiv – Offers children and elderly people medical, social and humanitarian help

Educate Ourselves and Share Learning

One of the most important things we can do to support those suffering under Putin’s violence is to ensure we are educating ourselves on the current political climate, the historical context of this war and the ways in which Ukraine citizens are impacted. Doing so requires no financial commitment, and with no risk to your physical safety. There are many resources available to support our learning. The below links offer some avenues in doing so. 

• https://ukrainewar.carrd.co/ 
• Support journalism local to Ukraine KyivIndepenent.com 
• Access resources made by Ukrainian citizens Linktr.ee/resourcesonukraine
• Follow the list of reporters on the ground, created by CNN reported, Daniel Dale (Twitter: @DanielDale) https://twitter.com/i/lists/1494327296383021062