Starting on Feb. 24, Russian President Vladimir Putin has been attacking the country of Ukraine in hopes of overtaking their government. While Putin had planned a quick invasion, his attempts have been met with many unexpected heroes. 

“The war in Ukraine is heartbreaking to watch happen. It matches alongside the AP U.S. History curriculum and is allowing me to see the reality of the world and the violent aspect of politics. I also admire what Ukraine is doing, and the bravery of its leader. To have the opportunity to leave and secure his own safety, but instead stay and put the lives of the people first just represents his dedication to the nation,” Erin Bradley, junior, said. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is fighting alongside his people, turning down any offers of his evacuation. With Russia’s constant attacks on civilian infrastructure, Zelenskyy is enraged and has vowed to stay with his country. After BBC News posted a video of him defending Kyiv, Zelenskyy’s heroism became well-known. As daily videos are being taped for messages worldwide, Zelenskyy continues to put his efforts into helping Ukraine. 

“In my opinion, Zelenskyy is a great man. The former actor and comedian, who once played the Ukrainian President in a film, is out on the front lines with his soldiers. He is brave, and as a primary target of Putin, he had to stay away from his family so they could stay safe. Zelenskyy is proudly defending his nation from Putin in this Russian invasion of Ukraine. I personally hope Ukraine wins,” Sebastian Morales, freshman, said. 

Popular companies have begun to do their part in the war, as well. Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Pepsi, and Starbucks have all suspended their businesses in Russia since the invasion of Ukraine. This decision was unexpected, as each of their major sales occur in this nation. Pepsi, for one, generates four percent of their annual revenue in Russia, so ending most of its franchise mere emphasizes the seriousness of the issue worldwide. As a result, prices are beginning to rise. 

“As a food and beverage company, now more than ever we must stay true to the humanitarian aspect of our business,” Ramon Lauguarta, Pepsi CEO, wrote. 

Author Felicity Hansen has been searching for a way to help with the war. Following a suggestion she saw on social media, she decided to support Ukraine citizens who are selling art on Etsy, an online marketplace, to raise money. When she saw a child selling drawings of a cat colored with yellow and blue, resembling the Ukraine flag, in Kyiv, she bought them at £5, $6.55, each. The child’s family posted updates on Etsy, and they managed to evacuate Kyiv using the funds from the artwork. 

“I think it is good that she is helping the family out. Every little bit going to help support Ukrainian families directly affected by the fighting is good in my opinion, so aiding them getting out of the capital is a good thing to me,” Ryan Berwald, senior, said. 

There are many ways people can help contribute to the war. To learn more, click here.