Since Putin unleashed Russia’s war on Ukraine on Feb. 24, a number of Hollywood celebrities have publicly condemned Russia’s actions. Through Instagram posts, heartfelt speeches or raising funds for Ukrainian victims, Hollywood celebs seem to have come together to help the war-torn country.
Here are just some of the celebrities who raised their voices to support Ukraine.
Angelina Jolie
Known for her philanthropism, “Tomb Raider” star Angelina Jolie posted a set of harrowing images of children in Ukraine. Jolie spoke about the suffering and trauma children endure when they are caught up in war.
“As well as the millions who’ve fled over Ukraine’s borders, nearly 2 million people are displaced inside their country, many trapped by fighting, denied access to aid, and in direct physical danger. Without an end to the war children will pay the highest price – in trauma, lost childhoods and shattered lives.”
Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher
Mila Kunis, a Hollywood actress born in Ukraine, and her husband Ashton Kutcher have raised over $30 million for Ukrainian refugees. The couple kicked off the campaign by donating $3 million themselves.
Kunis and Kutcher wrote in an Instagram post that all raised funds will be donated to Flexport.org and Airbnb.org — organizations that help Ukrainians fleeing the war.
“While this is far from a solution for the problem, our collective effort will provide a softer landing for so many people as they forge ahead into their future of uncertainty.”
Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds
Another celebrity couple, “Gossip Girl” actress Blake Lively and “Deadpool” star Ryan Reynolds, stood up for Ukrainian refugees following Russia’s invasion of its pro-western neighbor. Lively and Reynolds pledged to match donations up to $1 million to support Ukrainians fleeing their country.
“In 48 hours, countless Ukrainians were forced to flee their homes to neighboring countries. They need protection,” Reynolds wrote in a Twitter post.
Emilia Clarke
Emilia Clarke, a British actress who rose to fame for her role in the hit TV series “Game of Thrones,” urged her fans to support the Ukrainian people.
In an Instagram post, she expressed her solidarity with Ukraine and asked her followers to donate to organizations that help displaced Ukrainians.
“As the news comes in everyday it can feel overwhelming, not knowing how any one individual can make any difference to this shocking reality, but here are a few ways to show your support and send some love…”
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Arnold Schwarzenegger has made one of the most memorable speeches on the Ukraine-Russian war by speaking directly to the Russian people.
“Your lives, your limbs, your futures are being sacrificed for a senseless war condemned by the entire world.”
The actor condemned the war, calling it “illegal,” and said that Russian people are being lied to about the conflict.
Known for his iconic role in “Terminator,” Schwarzenegger is extremely popular among Russian audiences. His video was subtitled in Russian and posted on the Telegram messaging app where it received over half a million views.
Schwarzenegger then addressed President Putin, saying: “You started this war. You are leading this war. You can stop this war.”
Benedict Cumberbatch
British actor Benedict Cumberbatch, famous for starring in “Sherlock” and “Doctor Strange,” said that he hoped to participate in a new British government scheme "Homes for Ukraine," which allows citizens to offer accommodations for Ukrainian refugees to come to the U.K.
"It is a really shocking time to be a European two and a half hours flight away from Ukraine, and it's something that hangs over us," Cumberbatch told Sky News at the British Academy Film Awards.
"We all need ... to do more than wear a badge. We need to donate, we need to pressure our politicians to continue to create some kind of a refugee safety and a haven here for people who are suffering."
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