On February 24th 2022, the President of Russia Vladimir Putin announced a “military operation” and Russia invaded Ukraine. The world has been watching in disbelief as Russia has ensued violence throughout the country of Ukraine, and many innocent Ukrainian civilians and military personnel have lost their lives. Since the initial invasion, many Ukrainians and expatriates living in Ukraine have been displaced from their homes, stranded in shelters, fled the country to safer territories, or have been land locked by horrifying and incessant explosions and destruction. As tension has escalated, footage of bombings and airstrikes have flooded social media, and people around the world have begun standing in solidarity with Ukraine. The series of events are continuing to change quickly, and staying abreast of the current affairs is essential in times such as this. For a brief overview of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, read these 15 heartbreaking facts about Russia invading Ukraine.
137 lives were lost on the first day of the Russian invasion.
Within the first day of Russia invading Ukraine, casualties were already staggering. According to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy, 137 lives were lost on day one of the invasion, including innocent civilians and military personnel.
Hacker organization Anonymous declares cyberwar on Russia.
To show support for Ukraine has taken credit for hacking the Russian Ministry of Defence database, according to The Guardian. And in order to promote pro-Ukraine content, Anonymous has also hacked multiple TV channels.
People in Ireland have shown support for Ukraine on social media.
People from around the world are showing support for Ukraine, including Ireland. Images online show red paint staining the entrance of the Russian Embassy in Ireland. The caption read, “We stand with you, Ukraine.”
A heartbreaking video goes viral, of a Ukrainian father saying goodbye to his family.
One of the most gut wrenching moments of footage of the Ukrainian’s new harsh reality is of a father who must say goodbye to his family. He is staying to fight against Russia, while his family leaves for safety. The video shows him hugging his daughter tightly.
Thousands of people in Lithuania take to the streets to demand peace for Ukraine.
The European country of Lithuania flooded the streets outside of the Russian Embassy in their country to demand peace. Ten thousand people marched and showed solidarity by collectively carrying huge Lithuanian and Ukrainian flags on their backs.
Ukrainians take shelter wherever they can.
As destruction ensued all around them, Ukrainians sought out safety wherever they could. One man found shelter with his cat in a Metro station, along with others.
Ukrainian military regains control of a major airport in Kyiv.
After regaining control of the Hostomel Airport in Kyiv, Ukrainian soldiers of the 4th Rapid Reaction Brigade make a victory post online, with smiles and proudly holding a tattered but victorious Ukrainian flag.
Poland is showing support for Ukrainian refugees.
Poland welcomed refugees at train stations as they fled their country to safety. Volunteers provided food, water, warm clothes, cars and lodging, as well as medical aid and psychological counseling.
Israel provides medical support to military and civilians in Ukraine.
Medics posted their travels to Ukraine, as they journeyed to provide immediate medical relief to civilians and military personnel. The caption read, “Doctors of Israel On A Journey To Ukraine. Glory To Ukraine!”
Visegrad 24 posts safe houses for Ukrainian refugees.
The political and cultural alliance of Central Europe called Visegrad Group developed a map of safe houses for those fleeing Ukraine. The caption says, “Polish hospitality is no myth!’
Celebs around the world give financial assistance.
Actor Ryan Reynolds posted a call for donations through the UN Refugee Agency, with a pledge to match donations up to $1 million.
Airspace closes to Russian planes.
To show support for Ukraine and to halt progression of Russian attacks, the EU closed its airspace to Russian planes.
Sweden sends medical supplies to Ukraine.
Stockholm, Sweden offered aid through sending hospital equipment and medical supplies to Ukraine.
Denmark allows volunteers to join the fight in Ukraine.
Denmark became the first country to allow volunteers to join the foreign brigade in Ukraine.
US and EU join forces to cut Russia out of banking systems.
Both the US and EU agree to cut Russian banks from the Swift financial system.
