Ukraine faces uncertainty in the days and weeks ahead as the invasion by Russian military forces continues.
On Thursday morning, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the country would carry out ‘military operations’ in eastern Ukraine.
But since then explosions have been heard across the whole of Ukraine, while Russian tanks and army personnel have been seen in some of the country’s major cities - including the capital of Kyiv.
Families were seen fleeing their homes in Kyiv shortly after the announcement from President Putin.
The ones who were left with no option but to stay have stayed in underground stations, which have been set up as makeshift bomb shelters as Russian forces continue on their offensive.
On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that 137 civilians and military personnel were killed in the country during the first day of the Russian invasion.
That figure is expected to sky rocket following this weekend as Russia grows more aggressive towards Ukraine.
Here are some organisations that are helping Ukrainians that you can donate to amid the crisis.
Save the Children
Save the Children has launched an urgent fundraising push to help children through the crisis in Ukraine.
The charity say that at least 7.5 million people under the age of 18 are in grave danger of physical harm, severe emotional distress and displacement due to the conflict.
Money raised with go towards providing children and families with humanitarian aid, providing cash grants for food, rent and medicines and helping children overcome the psychological impacts.
Donations can be made here.
British Red Cross
The British Red Cross has opened its Ukraine Crisis Appeal in an effort to support those in need during the conflict.
A notice on the appeal says that the Ukrainian Red Cross Society and the International Committee of the Red Cross will continue to respond to “existing and emerging humanitarian needs”.
Donations will go towards food, water, first aid, medicines, warm clothes and shelter for someone impacted by the Russian invasion.
People can donate here.
British-Ukrainian Aid
British-Ukrainian aid supports people suffering from the war and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine by aligning UK and Ukrainian efforts.
The charity offers assistance to vulnerable individuals who have been physically, mentally or socially disadvantaged, including the injured and wounded, orphaned children, elderly people, internally displaced persons and families who have lost their main earners.
It also aims to ensure that war casualties are property prepared, reintegrated and helped to live independent and fulfilled lives.
Donations can be made here.
The Kyiv Independent
The English language publication is one of many outlets in the country providing developments as they happen on the ground in Ukraine.
Staff at The Kyiv Independent established the newspaper after they were asked from the Kyiv Post for defending editorial independence, according to their website.
It has described itself at the “true, independent voice of Ukraine”.
Information on donations can be found here.
With Ukraine
The Embassy of Ukraine to the UK has launched the ‘With Ukraine’ fund to help provide humanitarian assistance to the civilian population.
“We are fighting with all our strength, we will not give in, we are the thin blue and yellow line that separates humanity and pure evil”, the appeal reads.
“Now, we need your help. We need you to #StandWithUkraine.”
Donations can be made here.
