So... I know a lot of people from Ukraine follow this channel, and maybe they would rather not see more reminders of the horrible situation they are currently in, which is why I'm really hesitant to make this post, but I think it's better than continuing to post stuff like nothing happened. Especially since Telegram is full of huge channels which would rather broadcast the opposite message. This isn't a huge channel with massive outreach, but at the same time, it isn't small either, which is why I feel like I should use it to... well, saying "help" would be giving myself a thousand times more credit. I can't do much besides offering a few words of support here.

For the people of Ukraine, and any victims of Russia's agression, especially those who were already struggling before the conflict, I deeply wish that your tragedy remains visible and is appropriately adressed, as soon as possible. That you will stay strong, and that your friends and families will be spared from this war. Let's hope this insanity opens the eyes of even more people, so that future catastrophes like that can be avoided - maybe you can find strength in waiting for this day to come.

That being said, like I mentioned before, I wanted to express my support, howewer I think this place is much more suited to be a pleasant distraction, than a bitter (even if supportive) reminder of reality. Which is why I don't plan on making more posts like this, at least for the time being.

As for the people who are currently safe, I encourage you to help in whatever way you can. I haven't picked a humanitarian action I would like to support yet, but I'm sure you've seen many just today on social media. I trust you to make a responsible choice. And even though I choose not to remind people of the war here, do not forget Putin's lies, make sure the outrage doesn't die out until the agression stops (and, if that's even possible, is punished). Keep up with Ukrainian media and foreign affairs (https://ukraine.ua/news/stand-with-ukraine/) and watch out for misinformation.

Also, for those of you who have found anger in your hearts, please do remember that the Russian people aren't behind this invasion - Russia is. Do not use this situation as an excuse for xenophobia. Most of Russians live in poverty, under an opressive government, and are victims of propaganda. They have little to no say in what the oligarchs do, and might even support them despite being good people at heart, because the Russian government and media lie to them, and are very effective liars. I'm Polish, so I can't speak much from experience, but I've definitely seen the same people in my country - also hateful, also victims. This is not to say that both sides are at fault here, or that both deserve the same compassion - Ukraine is the victim right now, they need the attention most.