Celebrities from around the world have reacted to the escalating crisis happening between Ukraine and Russia after Russia invaded Ukraine’s borders, with Russian President Vladimir Putin declaring war on the county. On Thursday, February 24th, Putin announced a “special military operation” in the east of the country. Explosions were reported shortly after his speech in the outskirts of Kharkiv, Kramatorsk, Mariupol, and the capital Kyiv. Russia’s actions have been met with condemnation from world leaders around the globe, including the US and the UK announcing sanctions against Russia. The unfolding crisis has prompted reactions from many celebrities, including the likes of John Cena, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Jared Leto.
Vera Farmiga, whose family is Ukrainian, went to Instagram, posting twice to extend her love and prayers to Ukraine.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CaUw29lrTen/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Farmiga even linked helpful sources in her Instagram bio for her followers to send support to the country’s citizens.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CaaTrNxuNs8/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
John Cena faced backlash from fans for promoting his new show Peacemakers while attempting to show support for Ukraine. “If I could somehow summon the powers of a real like #Peacemaker I think this would be a great time to do so.”
If I could somehow summon the powers of a real life #Peacemaker I think this would be a great time to do so.
— John Cena (@JohnCena) February 24, 2022
Sean Penn is currently in Ukraine filming a documentary surrounding the truth of the invasion. He stands in support of Ukraine and intends to speak to journalists, and the military in order to tell the world the true story. His efforts have been viewed as courageous and Ukrainians are grateful for his honesty. President Zelenskiy posted on Facebook a press briefing to which Penn was present for. See the translation on Facebook.
Arnold Schwarzenegger posted a show of his support, “My thoughts are with the Ukrainian people. I have been asked to do several interviews, but I believe the news should continue to focus on what’s happening on the ground – on the tragedy that has broken our hearts and on the courage of the Ukrainian people that has inspired us.”
Schwarzenegger also continued to create a Twitter thread showing support for the country, speaking against the war, and talking about both his Russian and Ukrainian fans, ultimately stating that he stands with the people of Ukraine and hopes for peace.
My thoughts are with the Ukrainian people. I have been asked to do several interviews, but I believe the news should continue to focus on what’s happening on the ground – on the tragedy that has broken our hearts and on the courage of the Ukrainian people that has inspired us.
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) February 25, 2022
Vitali and Wladimir @Klitschko, I am thinking of you, my friends. You were my heroes in the ring and you’re my heroes now. https://t.co/hR5U5llTwS
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) February 25, 2022
Jared Leto showed his support for his friends and family in Ukraine, “To my friends and family in Ukraine – my heart breaks that this conflict has escalated in such a devastating way. Please take great care and be as safe as you can. Sending thoughts to you and your loved ones during this chaotic and disruptive time.”
To my friends and family in Ukraine – my heart breaks that this conflict has escalated in such a devastating way. Please take great care and be as safe as you can. Sending thoughts to you and your loved ones during this chaotic and disruptive time. pic.twitter.com/UXyu0lOzNa
— JARED LETO (@JaredLeto) February 25, 2022
Director-actor David Lynch posted a daily weather report condemning Vladimir Putin and Russia’s invasion. The emotionally charged video includes Lynch’s musings that “death and destruction” will inevitably come for Putin because “what you sow you shall reap.” Lynch calls the world to action to rally together and stop the attack to work toward peace. Watch the report below.
More responses will be added as celebrities, directors, and more continue to show their support.