Dear UFF Friends and Supporters, today we would like to tell you about a resistance movement in the temporarily occupied territories of southern and eastern Ukraine.
A Symbol of Resistance – The Yellow Ribbon
Formed in April 2022 in response to Russia’s full-scale invasion, these activists collect information on Russian military movements and share truthful information about the war, despite Russia’s efforts to restrict internet access and control the narrative.
The yellow ribbon itself is a symbol of Ukraine’s sovereignty and a reminder that the occupation of these territories is temporary. Ukrainians in these regions continue to resist, despite the danger and hardship.
Henichesk: Persevering Through Occupation
The left bank of the Kherson region, including the city of Henichesk, rejoices at the recent liberation of Kherson. Yet the struggle continues, as Yellow Ribbon activists in Henichesk steadfastly resist the occupation.
Berdiansk: Holding On to Ukrainian Identity
One of the cities under occupation is Berdiansk, home to a member of the UFF team. Although the city now seems “empty, tense, full of Russian soldiers, dangerous and a little alien,” the locals refuse to give up.
“Berdiansk misses its people very much,” shares a Yellow Ribbon activist. “But I have to, because they are almost always empty and sad. I, and a lot of other people here, are waiting for Ukraine to come back. And we are not just waiting, we are working, which is what happened. We are resisting. Don’t forget about us, don’t forget about our native Berdiansk!”
Resistance Echoes in Crimea
The Yellow Ribbon movement is active across occupied territories, including in Crimea, which has been under Russian control since 2014. Recently, activists have hung posters and ribbons in public spaces in Yalta, Simferopol, and Sevastopol, distributing over 100 leaflets in a single day.
Despite 10 years of occupation, the Ukrainian people in Crimea continue to resist and await the return of their homeland to Ukraine.
Supporting the Resistance
UFF evacuates people from frontline areas and provides crucial humanitarian aid to those in need. If you would like to support the ongoing resistance and relief efforts, donate to the UFF. Your contribution can make a real difference in the lives of Ukrainians awaiting liberation.
Thank you for standing with Ukraine
#StandWithUkraine
#SupportUkraine