The topical news that has been flooding all news outlets both televised and on media has been the fatal war between Ukraine and Russia. By now there isn’t a soul who hasn’t heard about the disasters happening in Ukraine or how other nations have been affected, including the U.S. In summary, this war isn’t one that just started but was doomed to start a while back, the only change is that actions have now been ignited.

 Russia’s goal of expanding territory has become a great desire long ago as quoted by The New York Times, “Mr. Putin has described the Soviet disintegration as a catastrophe that robbed Russia of its rightful place among the world’s great powers.” Insisting that Ukraine becomes part of Russia, cities have been bombed, citizens are being enlisted and the people of Ukraine are now forced to leave their homes for safety. 

The devastating news has reached globally and many have started to contribute help for the refugees. Here in the U.S, citizens of Ukrainian ancestry have spoken out asking for help for both themselves and their families. 

Here at Kearny High School, we’ve asked some students for their take on the war, specifically those most affected. 

Margaryta Bondarenko, a junior of Ukrainian descent shares her thoughts and hopes on the crisis currently being faced in Ukraine.

What do you understand about the situation in Ukraine?

M.B: I know that Russia has invaded Ukraine and is currently wreaking havoc on the country.

How do you feel about the situation?

M.B: It makes me feel terrible and upset seeing all of the innocent people whose lives are being put in jeopardy and taken because of Russia’s tyrannical leader.

How do you think this conflict is going to end?

M.B: I have this feeling that there is a possibility of this conflict causing another major world war. Ukrainians are trying their very best to defend the country and not give up. In the meantime other powerful nations are simply sending them weapons yet providing no other major assistance. My parents also feel this way but of course, we can only hope that does not happen. 

What do you want the rest of the world to know about the crisis?

M.B: I want others to know about the horrors that are taking place there now. Bombs are being dropped on towns and cities. Russians are shooting up daycares, hospitals, and schools. I want people to understand just how much stress the country is under, anticipating more attacks and the possibility of them being next. Most of all I want the world to understand how many people have unfairly lost their loved ones. Hundreds of people, including children, are taking shelter in bomb shelters and subway stations to avoid this exact fate all alone. 

What lessons do you think the world can learn from this?

M.B: I think the world can learn that it’s important to choose better leaders who will not turn tyrannical and show sociopathic behaviors. Always have someone in a higher position to stop these people from committing atrocities. But mostly, I wish for people to just spread awareness for similar situations and help in whatever way they can. 

Mikhail Shabala, also a junior at the school and of Russian descent also answered a few questions firmly against the actions made by Russia. 

How do you feel about the situation between Ukraine and Russia?

M.S: I feel like this whole situation is one that should have never been reached in the first place. Ukrainians are a brother nation historically; basically being Russian, there is no reason to kill our own people. Any problem can be solved through negotiation. 

How has your family been affected?

M.S: Most of my Family live in Russia and they have already felt the repercussions of sanctions. As an example, my grandma can no longer get medicine, and other unfortunate situations are befalling the citizens who in the majority are against conflict. 

How do you hope or expect this war to end?

M.S: I pray there’s less bloodshed and that this all eventually ends soon.