Ukranians are utilizing what may be their most important weapon against Russia: communication.
Ukraine is maintaining strong global sentiment, which is helping to foster an international movement to isolate Russia and bring more aid to Ukraine. While it’s difficult to observe the horror in Europe, it’s inspiring to witness how Ukaranians are empowering themselves.
Mastering the sound bite
"The fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride," has become one of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s most memorable quotes.
As a former actor, Zelensky understands the power of capturing the feeling of a moment in a distinctive line. It’s his ability to deliver a sharp sound bite that keeps his narrative fresh in the international media and understandable to the everyday person.
The first “TikTok war”
The New Yorker is calling this the first TikTok war. From a young girl singing “Let it go” in a bomb shelter, to villagers feeding a young captured Russian soldier while they help him FaceTime his mom, these organic moments shared on social media are helping the world humanize and empathize with those involved in the conflict, and thus feel more connected to it.
Even with few traditional journalists on the ground, Ukrainians are documenting and sharing their plight in an authentic way. They have become their own storytellers and are doing it masterfully.
Looking for ways to help the people of Ukraine? Here are a few ways you can.