Alexis Rinere – Contributing Writer

arr5887@psu.edu

On February 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. Russia’s leader, Vladimir Putin, set a goal to overrun Ukraine and discard their government. His goal was to “demilitarize and de-Nazify Ukraine”. He said that his main intent was to protect people of whom were subjected to genocide by the Ukrainian government. He later added that he planned to ensure Ukraine’s neutral status. When Ukraine was first invaded, Americans showed immense support. This was shown through Ukraine flags in windows, outside homes, on cars, and in many other places. Others joined in on rallies and fundraisers to help citizens living in Ukraine. A research study shows that in May, 55 percent of Americans expressed their concern for the country. This percentage has decreased to less than 38 percent as of September 2022. Two -in- ten Americans think that the United States does not provide Ukraine with enough support throughout the war. Shortly after Russia had invaded, 42 percent said that we were not financially supporting them enough. Three – in- ten Republicans say that the United States is providing substantial support right now and believe that we are doing everything we can to help them. Since January, the United States has committed over 19.6 billion dollars in security assistance to Ukraine. America has also sent rocket and missile launchers to Ukraine along with additional howitzers, a gun specifically used in the army. If you are personally interested in helping Ukraine there are many easy things you can do that will be exponentially helpful to the citizens of Ukraine. Consider sending humanitarian supplies such as clothing, blankets, bedding, kitchen sets, and hygiene products. Join a protest near you to express your concern and meet with others to devise a plan to help the country. A larger but live saving way to help is to host Ukrainians if they choose to flee their country. If you own a business, contemplate hiring any Ukrainians who, once again, left their country and are looking for ways to support themselves in America. The last, and most obvious, way to help Ukraine is to donate money. You can donate money to many different organizations which then are divided among the country to where it is needed most. If able it is always important to support others, no matter the situation.