Angelina Jolie, Kubra Khan and other stars voice support for Ukraine as Russia launches invasion
Celebrities around the world have voiced support for Ukraine and its people after Russia launched a full-scale invasion of the country on Thursday. Many big names took to social media to call for an immediate cease to the war, fearing massive loss of life as reports of casualties pour in.
Across Ukraine, at least 137 people have been killed and 316 wounded — both soldiers and civilians — as Russia unleashed airstrikes on cities and military bases, sending troops and tanks from multiple directions. The UN refugee agency said around 100,000 people fled their homes in Ukraine and several thousand more left the country after the invasion began.
Hollywood's Angelina Jolie — a UNHCR special envoy — posted a solemn message on social media to highlight efforts being made to protect those displaced during the conflict. "Like many of you, I’m praying for the people in Ukraine," she said. "My focus along with my UNHCR colleagues is that everything possible is done to ensure the protection and basic human rights of those displaced, and refugees in the region."
Indian actor Priyanka Chopra-Jonas, who is a global goodwill ambassador for UNICEF, also voiced her concern over the loss of life and repercussions of war. "The situation unfolding in Ukraine is terrifying. Innocent people living in fear for their lives and the lives of their loved ones, while trying to navigate the uncertainty of the immediate future," she posted.
American actor John Cena shared his desire for fighting to cease and peace to prevail. Cena plays the role of Peacemaker in an HBO Max series by the same name, a character that fights for peace at any cost. He took to Twitter and wished for a Peacemaker in real life as well.
Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai posted on Twitter about the "irreversible and unimaginable loss" caused by war. "Civilians are killed; homes, schools and places of worship destroyed. People need peace, stability and dignity more than anything else. Russia must stop the attack on Ukraine immediately."
In Pakistan, actor Ushna Shah tweeted that she is "heartbroken" to hear about Ukraine and is praying for everyone's safety.
Actor Kubra Khan shared a post on Instagram in solidarity as as well.
As did singer and actor Azaan Sami Khan.
Actor Osama Tahir called upon netizens to understand the seriousness of the situation and not turn it into a joke.
Actor Nadia Jamil expressed solidarity with Ukraine, sharing a quote from Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in regards to Russia's invasion.
Indian poet, lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar took to Twitter to highlight the importance and necessity of condemning all armed conflicts in the name of justice and fairness, including the war in Yemen that's been ongoing for years.
VJ and RJ Anoushey Ashraf expressed concern over the situation in Ukraine, calling for an end to the "bombing". She also voiced Akhtar's sentiments and called for an end to all armed conflict, whether it is in Kashmir, Yemen, Syria or Afghanistan.
American actor and director Sean Penn is currently on ground in Ukraine filming a documentary on the Russian invasion with VICE, Variety shared. The Oscar-winning actor appeared at a press briefing in Ukraine's capital Kyiv listening to government officials speak about the crisis Thursday.