On February 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a “military operation” and Russia invaded Ukraine. The world has watched in disbelief as Russia has resorted to violence across Ukraine, killing many innocent Ukrainian civilians and soldiers. Since the initial invasion, many Ukrainians and foreigners living in Ukraine have been displaced from their homes, stranded in shelters, fled the country to safer territories, or are land-locked by the horrific and incessant explosions and destruction. As tensions rise, footage of bombings and airstrikes flood social media, and people around the world have begun to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. Series of events are changing rapidly and it is necessary to stay abreast of current affairs at such times. For a brief overview of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, read these 15 heartbreaking facts about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
137 lives were lost on the first day of the Russian invasion.
On the first day of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the casualties are already staggering. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, 137 lives were lost on the first day of the invasion, including innocent civilians and military personnel.
Hacker organization Anonymous has declared a cyber war on Russia.
According to The Guardian, it took credit for hacking a Russian Defense Ministry database to show support for Ukraine. Anonymous has also hacked several TV channels to promote pro-Ukraine content.
People in Ireland show their support for Ukraine on social media.
People from all over the world, including Ireland, are supporting Ukraine. Pictures online show red paint at the entrance to the Russian embassy in Ireland. “Ukraine, we stand with you,” read the caption.
A heartbreaking video of a Ukrainian father saying goodbye to his family is going viral.
One of the most daring moments of the scenes of the new harsh reality of the Ukrainian, a father has to say goodbye to his family. He stays to fight against Russia while his family leaves for safety. In the video, he hugs his daughter tightly.
Thousands of people took to the streets in Lithuania to demand peace for Ukraine.
The European nation of Lithuania flooded the streets outside the Russian embassy in their country to demand peace. Ten thousand people marched, carrying large Lithuanian and Ukrainian flags on their backs in a show of solidarity.
Ukrainians are taking refuge wherever they can.
As destruction unfolded around them, Ukrainians sought refuge wherever they could. A man along with his cat found shelter in a metro station along with others.
The Ukrainian military regained control of a major airport in Kiev.
After retaking control of Hostomal Airport in Kiev, Ukrainian soldiers of the 4th Rapid Reaction Brigade, smiling and proudly holding a tattered but victorious Ukrainian flag, made a victory post online.
Poland supports Ukrainian refugees.
Poland welcomes refugees who have fled their country to safety at railway stations. Volunteers provided food, water, warm clothes, car and shelter, medical assistance and psychological counseling.
Israel provides medical aid to military and civilians in Ukraine.
The doctors recorded their trips to Ukraine as they traveled to provide immediate medical relief to civilians and military personnel. “Israeli doctors on a trip to Ukraine. Glory to Ukraine! ”
Visegrad 24 posts safe houses for Ukrainian refugees.
The Vizgrad Group, a political and cultural alliance in Central Europe, created a map of safe houses for those fleeing Ukraine. The headline reads, “Polish hospitality is not a myth!’
Celebrities from around the world are lending their support.
Actor Ryan Reynolds has issued a call for donations through the UN refugee agency, with a pledge to match donations of up to $1 million.
Airspace closes to Russian aircraft.
In a show of support for Ukraine and to halt the advance of Russian attacks, the European Union closed its airspace to Russian aircraft.
Sweden sends medical supplies to Ukraine
Stockholm, Sweden provided assistance by sending hospital equipment and medical supplies to Ukraine.
Denmark allows volunteers to join fight in Ukraine
Denmark is the first country to allow volunteers to join the foreign army in Ukraine.
The United States and the European Union have joined forces to remove Russia from banking systems.
Both the US and the EU agree to delist Russian banks from the SWIFT financial system.
