Why is there a war in Ukraine?
Ukraine and Russia have a long and complex history. For about 70 years, Ukraine was part of the Soviet Union, which Russia controlled. In 1991, the Soviet Union fell apart, and Ukraine became independent.
Many Russians think Ukraine should still be part of Russia, but most Ukrainians want to stay independent. Ukraine also wants to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). This group includes countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, who all said they would protect each other. Russia sees NATO as a threat and doesn't want it near Eastern Europe.
Since 2014, tensions between Ukraine and Russia have been high. Sadly, this got worse in February 2022 when Russian troops entered Ukraine to try and take back control, and the two countries have been at war since.
Growing up in Ukraine amid war
What has happened during the war?
On 24 February 2022, life suddenly changed for the people of Ukraine. Millions of women and children fled across the border into neighbouring countries, triggering a mass displacement on a scale and speed not seen since World War II.
People thought the war would end quickly, but now, in its third year, the impact of the war has devastated families. With ongoing fighting and destruction, many children have lost loved ones, their homes, schools and safe places to play.
Is the war in Ukraine going to end?
The world wants a lasting peace in Ukraine, and although there is a lot of uncertainty right now, world leaders are working towards an agreement to end the war.
Meet Patron, a lifesaving Jack Russel Terrier
Ukraine has become littered with landmines, explosives that, when stepped on, cause major injury. Patron, the lifesaving Jack Russel Terrier, teaches Ukraine children about landmine safety.
5 things you should know about the impact of war on Ukraine’s children and young people.
Since the war in Ukraine escalated in February 2022, the lives of children and their families have been thrown into chaos.
Children in frontline areas have spent up to 5,000 hours – nearly 7 months - sheltering underground.
2.9 million children need help in Ukraine.
The war has impacted all aspects of children's lives, including their health, education and safety.
Thousands of schools have been damaged or destroyed. Disrupting education for millions of children.
1 in 3 children reported feeling so hopeless and sad that they couldn't do their usual activities.
How UNICEF is helping children in Ukraine
UNICEF has been working with local partners to reach millions of children and their families with safe drinking water, lifesaving healthcare and nutrition, access to education and learning supplies, child protection services, and mental health support. We also support Ukraine’s children and their families living in neighbouring countries to access services such as education and healthcare.
Finding a safe home in Australia
Two Ukrainian families share their stories of leaving everything behind to find safety in Australia after the war broke out.
How to deal with upsetting news
When natural disaster strikes or conflict breaks out, it is ok to feel scared, worried or sad. Adults can feel this way too. When you are feeling this way, it is important to remember:
It’s in the news because it doesn’t happen often.
- When bad things happen, it is also a time when people come together to help each other.
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it is ok to switch off and stop reading.
- Share how you feel and ask your parents and teachers questions.
When it all feels too much, it's ok to switch off
What can you do to help?
Gather your family, friends and school and fundraise for children in Ukraine.
