Prince William & Kate Middleton Stand In Solidarity With Ukraine

Reports of Russia invading its neighbour Ukraine has sent shockwaves around the world, with people eager to learn how they can help those affected by the crisis. As per the BBC, Russian military forces have crossed the Ukrainian border in the north, south, and east of the country, launching airstrikes against military targets close to large cities. Showing their support of Ukraine, Prince William and Kate Middleton shared a statement via their official Twitter account on Saturday, Feb. 26. The royal couple said: “In October 2020, we had the privilege to meet President Zelenskyy and the First Lady to learn of their hope and optimism for Ukraine’s future. Today, we stand with the President and all of Ukraine’s people as they bravely fight for that future.” They signed the message with a Ukraine flag, followed by their initials, “W & C.”

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have thus far made two public statements about the escalating conflict, pledging their support of Ukraine and its people. On Saturday night, at the NAACP Awards, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were honoured with the President’s Award for their charity work and social justice campaigning. Upon accepting the prestigious award, Harry said: “We would like to acknowledge the people of Ukraine, who urgently need our continued support as a global community.”

Earlier in the week, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle shared a powerful message of support via Archewell. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex said they, and everyone at Archewell “stand with the people of Ukraine against this breach of international and humanitarian law and encourage the global community and its leaders to do the same."

Since the Russian invasion began, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has cut all diplomatic relations with Russia, and has imposed martial law across the country. In a statement, the leader told his public: “No panic. We're strong. We're ready for anything. We'll defeat everyone, because we are Ukraine.”

In a pre-recorded TV address, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the “special military operation” aims to “demilitarise” and “denazify” Ukraine. Shortly after the televised statement, the first attacks on Ukrainian military targets were reported. Per the Guardian, Putin has claimed that Russia’s plans “do not include the occupation of Ukrainian territories.” The leader added: “We are not going to impose anything by force.”

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelensky has called on citizens to defend Ukraine from Russian military forces. Ukrainian officials announced the suspension of internal civilian air traffic and the country’s foreign ministry has claimed that the “situation is under control.”

Countries including the U.S. and UK have announced plans to impose sanctions on Russia, and world leaders have addressed the unfolding situation. “I condemn this unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces,” U.S. President Joe Biden said in a statement, promising to hold Russia accountable. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Boris Johnson described the invasion as “a catastrophe for our continent” and called for an “urgent meeting of all NATO leaders as soon as possible.”

High profile celebrities, including the likes of Cher, Cardi B, Stephen King, and Piers Morgan, have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the continuing Russia and Ukraine crisis, many of which you can find below.