On February 24, Russian troops began their offensive against Ukraine, triggering a month-long conflict that has since displaced almost four million Ukrainian refugees, killed over 1000 civilians, and caused a humanitarian crisis unseen in Europe since the end of World War II. Yet, Russia has maintained its stance that a modern, West-leaning Ukraine would pose a significant threat to its safety, development, and existence. Despite predictions of a swift victory, Russian forces have been met with fierce, unexpected resistance from Ukraine. In addition, countries across the world have aided Ukraine by providing both economic and military support.
As the war grinds on, the state of Connecticut has continued to show support for Ukraine. Connecticut Senator Mr. Richard Blumenthal visited Ukraine earlier this month with a bipartisan group of senators and delivered remarks on the Senate floor on March 15 to urge for greater assistance to Ukraine. During his visit, he spoke with Ukrainian refugees in the aftermath of the bombing of the Yavoriv military base, located 12 miles from Poland’s borders. In his remarks to Congress, Mr. Blumenthal praised the generosity of the Connecticut community, stating, “In Connecticut, we see the Ukrainian-American community providing clothing and blankets, donations, along with the Polish-American community. Indeed, throughout the state of Connecticut and throughout the country, America’s hearts are going out to these refugees in this humanitarian crisis. That is what we do in America.”
Mr. Chris Murphy, a fellow Connecticut senator who also visited Ukraine, corroborated the importance of bipartisan support. He stated in an article written in The Day, “Part of what made my trip so significant was the makeup of our group: four Democrats and three Republicans. Traveling together showed Russia and the world that Republicans and Democrats are united in defending Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.” Mr. Murphy hoped that Putin would be able to take “stock of the situation at hand and the cost of an invasion, and then commit to sitting down with Ukraine, the U.S., and Europe to come to a diplomatic agreement.”
Everyday Connecticut citizens are also doing their part to show support for Ukraine. Volunteers at the Ukrainian National Home of Hartford, a cultural center dedicated to creating and maintaining “a center of Ukrainian Cultural and Community life in Central Connecticut,” have been helping to move valuable surgical equipment and supplies that will eventually make their way to Ukraine. Myron Kolinsky, the Communications Director for the Ukrainian National Home of Hartford, stated that the Home had completed two 53-foot tractor-trailer shipments with medical supplies, food, and clothing, which will be delivered to the city of Lviv. “Two other relief shipments are planned within the next two weeks,” he said.
In addition, police agencies across Fairfield county have donated more than 200 ballistic vests and helmets to aid the war effort in Ukraine. In a department news release, Fairfield Chief of Police Robert Kalamaras stated, “We hope that with this donation of much-needed gear, Ukrainian civilians will have the vital protection needed throughout the ongoing war.” Aquiline Drones, a drone manufacturing company based in Connecticut, also plans to send dozens of drones to provide humanitarian aid in Ukraine. Barry Alexander, the Founder and CEO of Aquiline Drones, said, “When you have such crises that involve the loss of life or displacement of human beings, these are extremely beneficial tech tools you need to have at your fingertips. Ideally, they’ll provide search and rescue inspections, delivery of pharmaceuticals, or other relief items.”
There are numerous ways for Connecticut residents to help Ukraine. Donations to charity organizations such as the International Rescue Committee, the Ukrainian Red Cross, and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) play vital roles in supporting refugees displaced by the war. In addition, the local Wallingford government can provide aid to fulfill the needs of new refugees. We can all extend our helping hands to the displaced refugees looking for aid by donating, advocating, or volunteering.
