Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine: What International Volunteers Should Know?

Last Updated: January 01, 2023

Tweet

As international volunteers, you need to keep yourself updated with world affairs. Russia's invasion of Ukraine is one of the most unfortunate events of 2023 that began on February 24th and hasn’t ended yet. The invasion only escalated since then and has caused an insurmountable amount of damage to the Ukrainian people.

As an effort to put pressure on Russia to stop their attacks, the world has put economic sanctions on Russia. Along with this, many countries such as European countries such as Poland, Netherland, UK, Sweden have banned Russia from their air space. The war has resulted in a worldwide increase in gas and oil prices and it is forecasted that there will be an impact on world food prices. 

What will be the effect of the Russian Invasion of Ukraine to the international volunteers and travelers?

International volunteers should note that the cost of living and traveling has risen in most countries due to the rise in the price of oil and gas. International traveling is safe although some changes in schedules should be expected. The necessity for volunteers is also changing around the world. There is a need for volunteers that can provide help to Ukrainians suffering from the invasion.

Russia - Ukraine Tension and war in Europe is putting few travelers into a hold

Due to the declaration of a no fly zone over parts of Europe including Russia and Ukraine, some of the international flights have been halted or rerouted. If you are a volunteer traveling to or from the affected space, your schedule might be affected due to the war. Experts have also mentioned that there is no reason for you to hold your travel to any other place apart from Ukraine. 

Higher fuel prices

The prices of goods and services worldwide have faced an unprecedented hike due to the sanctions put on Russian exports. Many western countries have announced a ban on natural gas and oil imports from Russia and now the price of fuel has reached record high. The increase in the fuel prices have a ripple effect on the price of other goods and services and fuel is required to transport products.

Expect higher air fares

The price of airfare has also gone up justifying the rise in fuel costs. This might cause issues for volunteers trying to book their long distance flights to destinations like Nepal, Peru, South Africa, Sri lanka and so on. These prices might stay high for a couple of months due to disrupted routes leading to connecting flights accompanying the high fuel costs. 

Concerns about the war in Ukraine and Travel plans to and from Europe

The war in Ukraine is still going on despite the numerous peace talks and efforts to stop Russia from making further attacks. Nonetheless, experts have already mentioned that there is no need to fear travel to and from European countries other than Ukraine itself. You don't need to cancel your upcoming trips if you have already booked for them. 

How We Can Help Ukraine Besides Volunteering?

1. Stay informed:

As someone who is genuinely concerned about the war and wants to help, the simplest way to do it is to keep yourself educated and informed about the invasion. There is much misinformation spreading all over social media. In order to know what is right and wrong, you should get your information from authentic news sites.

2. Donate Money to Causes Helping Ukraine:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by American Red Cross (@americanredcross)

The Ukrainian people are in a huge requirement of money for a lot of reasons. The easiest way you can help them is by donating money. There are a lot of international organizations trying to help Ukraine. These organizations need funds to run their programs successfully. So, you can easily find and help those that are taking donations.

3. Donate Food:

Many people in Ukraine are displaced due to violent attacks by Russia. Because of this, they don't have enough food supplies to feed themselves. There are organizations such as Nova Ukraine, that supply food to the needy children in Ukraine. There might be children in orphanages that might need supplies and food. 

4. Donate first aid kits:

Constant attacks have left many people wounded in the streets of Ukraine. These people might not have proper access to health care and medical supplies as these services are halted due to the war. Many health care providers are already involved in the war and taking care of the armed personnel. So, providing the donation of first aid kits will help the general public.

5. Show Solidarity through peaceful protests:

Your seemingly peaceful and harmless efforts can be very impactful in a larger context. By standing for Ukraine, you can show that they are supported and also increase awareness about the war. This can also help in increasing the donation. Make sure that you are following all the regulations and keeping it peaceful while you do it.

6. Donate everyday supplies and medicines:

There are many organizations that are donating day to day supplies and medicines to the affected people in Ukraine. The lack of proper communication and transport has made it difficult for people to receive everyday supplies as well. Contact and donate to organizations who help Ukrainians that have had to run away from their homes and need everyday supplies and medicines. 

7. Sign up to host refugees:

If it is possible for you, you can also sign up to become a host for Ukrainian refugees. There are organizations such as Ukraine Take Shelter that provide a platform for refugees to search for a willing host. If you have the possibility of providing childcare, disability support or legal support systems, you can also mention that in the platforms.

8. Help the refugees:

There are many ways in which you can help the Ukrainian refugees even if you cannot welcome or host them. You can team up with Airbnb and provide your space for the refugees for a temporary period if you can. You can provide necessary financial assistance by donating towards the refugees as well.

9. Donate to the national bank to fund for Ukrainians:

If you want to help the military of the Ukraine, you can donate to their national bank. The money will be used to purchase things needed for the Ukranians. Make sure to authenticate the bank account before you donate. You can donate to other organizations that provide supplies including sacks, flashlights, stoves, underwear, socks, raincoats .

10. Donate to organization supporting children:

Act of violence, war and attacks have a negative psychological impact on children that have had to face the consequences. The children in Ukraine as well as refugee children need psychological counseling to maintain their wellbeing. You can find organizations that support these activities and donate them and also raise awareness about this issue.

Which Countries are open and safe for volunteering ?

Apart from the directly involved and war affected zones inside Russia and Ukraine, many countries are safe and open for volunteering. Despite tension in the European region, countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica , Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa , Uganda are safe and open for international volunteers. 

Conclusion: Russia's Invasion of Ukraine and Information International Volunteers and Travelers Should Know

Russia has continued its invasion of Ukraine for about 20 days now and they have continued to make inhumane attacks over the past days with no sign to stop. International volunteers have always worked for the people in need and right now Ukrainians need help more than ever. Even though there is only a slim possibility of volunteering you can help them through other ways such as providing financial donations.

As a traveler you should be aware of the possible change in the flight routes and fares over the months. If you have plans over the few months, you should also be updated of any new changes in the international flight policies. However, along with this information make sure to ensure that you follow the coronavirus mandates when you are traveling.