As many people know, Ukraine was invaded by Russia beginning on February 24th, 2022. In the weeks since the destruction that has been done to Ukraine and harm inflicted upon the citizens has been devastating. The US has even accused Russia and their armed forces of committing war crimes.

While the acts of violence that have been perpetrated are incredibly heartbreaking to see, many people have attempted to support Ukraine and aid in their defense against Russia. However stepping in has proved to be a difficult task given the threatening nature of Putin’s promises to other countries who get directly involved.

Despite these warnings many people have found ways to step in. The United States government, according to the White House, has been able to transfer “Short-range air-defense systems” with the goal of being able to extend the range of the equipment and training Ukraine defense sources on how to properly utilize the equipment. A more detailed list of support efforts from the U.S Government can be found in the statement from the White House linked here.

According to the Department of State, the United States has also donated nearly three hundred million dollars to Ukraine in hopes of supporting their efforts.

The support efforts do not end there however, as the aid has extended to the local community of Danbury, including WCSU. Many police and fire stations have been attempting to put together resources to send to Ukraine, including our very own campus police.

According to official statements, WCSU campus police have begun sending materials, including items such as protective vests and helmets that aim to support the Ukrainian defense forces via charities vetted by the State and Defense departments.

The Echo editorial staff encourages interested students to likewise get involved and support Ukraine. Although it can feel like a difficult task, many avenues are easily accessible to the general public. It is important to learn how you can step in to help. It can become easy to feel powerless in this situation, but it is crucial to take action and support others in need.

One thing you can do is spread accurate information about the conflict. For example, Poland is currently offering all Ukrainian nationals unconditional asylum. Polish relief organizations are offering food as well as medical support, legal aid, and shelter to anyone who is able to make it over. A passport and visa are also not required at this time, it is just important that people are able to make it to safety.

Misinformation has unfortunately been spread by Russian backed media sources that Poland is not offering support to Ukraine. Remember to check facts before re-sharing, as this can be incredibly harmful. Be careful about sharing unverified rumors, which may contain misinformation. Do not share photos, video, or other information which may endanger Ukrainian or Russian protesters’ lives. The concern surrounding media includes English-speaking social media as more volunteers step in. Think before you post.

It’s worth noting that despite how cruel the Russian government has been to dissenters, there has been an uproar of anti-war protests going on from the citizens of Russia.

As of February 26th, it has been reported by multiple news outlets including the Euronews that over 6,000 arrests have been conducted by the Russian government due to these protests called by human rights activist groups.

Although most arrests have been recorded in Moscow, the crackdown is not limited to just this central area. Despite many of the protesters being of a peaceful nature many people have been detained by riot police for standing up against the injustice towards Ukraine.

It is critical to remember while holding Russian political and military leadership accountable for their actions, we can see that not all citizens of Russia are responsible. Thus, it is important to not vilify the people of Russia for the actions of their government.

Russia has also been doubling down on the censorship of their citizens, including their access to social media and what they are able to say in terms of free speech against their government. According to the New York Times, major tech companies including Apple, Tik-Tok, Twitter and other major platforms have been required to set up legal entities if they wished to remain active in Russia.

More developments about the censorship of Russia and the way that they are allowed to interact with social media continue to unfold, many platforms are still deciding whether they would like to comply with the rules that Russia has given, whether it be partially agreeing or not at all.

Remember to keep in mind that the people of Russia have a system that is actively silencing them and stopping them from being able to use their voices in support of other people that their government is working against.

There are multiple organizations that you can support to help Ukraine, including Fight for Right, which aims to help Ukrainians with disabilities during a state of emergency. Another is an organization called Everybody Can, which aims to help all of Ukraine and is based in Kyiv, and Kyiv Pride in order to support LGBTQIA+ people in Ukraine during emergencies.

Many charities are also accepting money for Ukraine, including Savelife, which is based around giving money to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. There is also Territory of Kindness, which aims to assist children in Ukraine, Children’s Voices which aims to provide children with psychological help and therapy following the events of war and lastly, Ukrainian Congress Committee of America which aims to fund medical supplies.

Nonpartisan Organizations who are politically neutral such as the International Committee of the Red Cross, the United Nations Children’s Fund, and The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, are also accepting donations.

Overall, there are many ways that you can get involved and show support without having to directly volunteer. It is also important to keep international attention on Ukraine and the ongoing violence occurring. Educating yourself on the situation and publicly showing support is crucial as it can improve your ability to help and educate others.

Even efforts as small as starting a conversation on the issues going on with Ukraine and Russia can make a difference and help spur the community to offer support wherever possible. Never forget to use your voice.