I watched something that I never thought I would see in my lifetime: Miles of tanks rolling into another democratic country totally unprovoked. I always thought the next major war would be cyber warfare not a WWII type of European invasion. I was wrong.
As we watch the war unfold on the news and social media, we have to realize that we are not helpless in this situation. Here are things you can do:
- Donate money to charities that support Ukrainian causes. There is an endless list, but do your homework on where you money is going.
- Donate directly to the Ukrainian military. They have set up a bank account for the armed forces.
- Rent an Airbnb in Ukraine and of course never go. This is an innovative idea that is gaining traction to get money directly in the hands of Ukrainians.
- Hire Ukrainians remotely. There is are plenty of talented Ukrainians looking for work on sites like UpWork. Some may be abroad sending money back to help their families.
- Volunteer for the Ukrainian Foreign Legion. While this is not me, some people do want to go to Ukraine directly and help in the fight. Reports say that 16,000 people have already registered.
- Donate to the opposition press in Russia. Another option is to donate to media organizations in Russia that are not controlled by Putin’s regime. They can tell Russian citizens the truth about the war and help support the protests there. Meduza (Russian online newspaper and news aggregator) and OVD-Info (a Russian human rights service) have both been recommended.
- Support political action. Energy and other prices will go up as a result of U.S. sanctions against Russia. We have to bear this with already rising inflation.
Since this war will be going on for sometime and maybe even spread to other countries, we have to be willing to support Ukraine in the long run.
Great ideas Barry. Thanks.
Great recommendations; thanks Barry! I dedicated my weekly 3 Minute Reset to Ukraine last week, and will continue to include a link to Chef José Andrés’s World Central Kitchen in future editions. His work helps so many people from so many parts of the world — a warm, nutritious meal is such a universal need.
Thanks Molly- I have heard great things about Chef Jose’s work!
Well done for being open and accurate about this Barry.
One of my team is married to a Russian girl. We helped with her immigration. She talks to her friends back in Moscow, and we are helping her friends and family spread the (real) word.
We have used Ukrainians remotely in our agency, and will seek out more.
I am also using Airbnb to pass money over.