Ukrainians in Winnipeg are on edge after news that Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent military forces into the neighbouring country. Ukrainians in Manitoba are sending their support to friends and relatives and hoping the conflict doesn't escalate further.
"It's very disturbing. We were very upset," said Regina Kostetsky, who was born in Ukraine.
Kostetsky, an ethnic Russian, grew up in Ukraine and still has family there.
"They’re definitely scared and they’re definitely worried about their future because future depends on the decisions that are made in the next short while," she said.
Russian forces took over Crimea in southern Ukraine, bordering the Black Sea. Canada’s Department of Foreign Affairs urged Canadians to leave the region while it's still safe to do so.
Rallies against the military action took place across Canada, including outside the Russian consulate Toronto.
"The community has really rallied together to provide as much support as we can, and we have to, for our brothers and sisters in Ukraine," said Oksana Bondarchuk of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Mb Provincial Council.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper convened a special meeting of key cabinet ministers to discuss the situation, which is welcome news to the Ukrainian Canadian Congress.
"The Canadian government, the support has been unwavering in this regard," said Bondarchuk.
As the situation in Ukraine rapidly evolves, half a world away, people anxiously hope for a non-violent solution.
"I hope Ukraine doesn't split into half,” said Kostetsky. “It will be very sad to see this beautiful country, hardworking country, split in half."
Local Ukrainians raising funds
Members of Winnipeg’s Ukrainian community gathered Saturday night for a fundraiser in of support for protesters in Kyiv who were killed and injured during months of clashes with government security forces.
The night was full of singing, music and food as the Winnipeg Ukrainian community joined in support.
The Help Maidan! Fundraiser raised money to purchase medical supplies and treatment of injured protesters and support the families who lost loved ones.
The event was organized by Institute Prosvita and Ukrainian Winnipeg. The event raised between $8,000 and $10,000.
According to recent numbers, as many as 200 people have died from recent violence in Ukraine and thousands more are in hospital.
"They need surgery, they need medical supplies, they need blood, they need plasma, so we are fundraising for the victims right now,” said Andrii Shcherbukha
Organizers said some parts of Ukraine are still safe, but the situation escalating. They're worried the situation will get worse. They say no conflict is worth losing lives.
- Wtih a report by Ben Miljure
