Standing Together, Three Years On

Our staff member in Kyiv reflects on the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. 

Three years ago, the world held its breath, watching Ukraine. Many doubted that Ukrainians would stand. But they did. They stood in the face of a threat that seemed insurmountable. They stood when the first rockets fell on their cities. They stand still, even now, when war has become a distant routine for those watching from afar. 

This is more than a fight for land. This is a fight for dignity. For the right to exist. For the right to choose one’s future. 

Politicians may sign agreements, give speeches, and argue over numbers and the delivery of aid. But Ukraine’s support has never depended solely on governments. If there’s one lesson this war has taught us, it’s that true help comes from the hearts of individuals. 

Three years ago, Ukraine forced the world to look in the mirror and answer a simple question: Which side do you choose? 

And millions answered: The side of freedom, justice, and humanity. 

Those who donated for Bayraktars and Starlinks. 
Those who opened their homes to Ukrainian families. 
Those who refused to stop talking about this war, even when the headlines shifted to other crises. 

And those who understand that help is needed not only for those on the front lines, but also for those who must heal in order to rebuild the future. 

Because this fight is not just about Ukraine. It is about the kind of world we all want to live in. 

We have learned to stand together. 
Now, we must learn never to step back.