Stand with Ukraine - FUNDRAISER

The world has changed just a few days after I decided to start sharing my travel experiences again. And I couldn't make myself to do it as sharing my happy memories just doesn't seem right at the moment.

The situation in Ukraine has taken most of my attention lately. I am devastated by the needless suffering this war has brought upon many people across the world. Whenever there is another humanitarian crisis, whether it’s in Europe or in other parts of the world, my heart skips a beat. I try to help where and when I can, through awareness, through dialogue, through donations, through support of local initiatives and so on.

Ukraine and Russia are very close to me, for many reasons. We were all part of the Soviet Union. We have similar customs, similar cuisine, similar culture. I have been to Ukraine and to Russia several times. I have friends, acquaintances, and colleagues in both countries. We share the Slavic language. I find it heart-breaking to see how decisions made by one individual can deny all that we share and have people start killing each other in every sense of the word.

Everyone can see the horrible images of the war, on TV, on internet, in the newspapers. Civilians and military in Ukraine are victim of constant bombing and firefights. Some lose their home, others lose their life and again others lose those who they love and care for the most. Historical objects, schools, churches, hospitals are not spared. Animal sanctuaries and zoos are suffering, despite their caretakers’ continuous dedication to stay put and face the constant threat.

Many workers in Ukraine are volunteering. People of various professions are picking up guns to protect Ukraine, other people support them by making camouflage nets, petrol bombs, or by providing food and medical care. We see Ukrainians who live in other parts of the world coming back to Ukraine, to go an protect their country, while sacrificing the life they had built up abroad. They are accompanied by thousands of other nationalities who will join the international legion in Ukraine.

On the other hand, many young Russian soldiers are being sent to war, often without knowing their fate and many not supporting the cause. They are stripped of their identity in case they fall during battle. Their family, partners, friends, neighbours may never see them again. Even if they survive, soldiers who surrender fear for their lives back home. Demonstrators against Putin in Russia are being abused and imprisoned. Russians across the globe, who had nothing to do with Putin’s decision and who do not support the war, are being denied, hated, bullied and blamed.

Right after the war started, many refugees crossed the border to Slovakia, with almost 2'000 of them coming to the place where I was born, place of less than 20'000 inhabitants. If I didn’t have a job, I would have gone there to help. It is one of the things I’ve always valued the most, providing a helping hand on the ground. For now, it is best if I support financially. I have sent several donations already, and I would like to take this opportunity to donate all proceeds of this post to my dear brave friend @zirochka in Kyiv.

Thank you for reading.

Martina