We Can't Give Up on Ukraine

As we mark the two-year anniversary of Russia’s unrelenting attack on Ukraine, it's crucial to acknowledge the evolving geopolitical landscape and reaffirm our commitment to supporting those affected the most by the ongoing conflict. Standing with Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees is more important than ever; we can’t lose Ukraine or abandon its people now.

This war has become a battle of civilizations: democratic values and multilateralism on one side, and authoritarianism on the other. If Ukraine loses, we all lose. Russia is playing a bigger game here and we shouldn’t forget it.

Why Military and Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine Pending in Congress Matters

Our future hinges on Ukraine’s future. I see Ukrainians fighting for it at home and abroad. They aren’t giving up and neither can we. The $60 billion aid package for Ukraine currently pending in Congress and the 2024 U.S. elections are critical to determining Ukraine’s options. We have to get this right. If we lose Ukraine, Russia’s resurgence becomes a fait accompli.

Ukraine’s negotiating position is getting weaker; with its two main backers, the United States and Europe, showing signs of wavering. Putin is elated that Republicans do not want to spend money on Ukraine. The Kremlin’s position will be strengthened by Donald Trump’s nomination; he is open about his criticism of military support for Kyiv and NATO.??

Moreover, Ukraine depends heavily on European Union (EU) economic support to run 100% of its public services, like schools and hospitals, and defense activities. The EU recently approved a $54 billion aid package but France and Germany are still withholding military aid. And while the recent EU vote to open membership proceedings to Ukraine is welcome news, membership is not guaranteed and can take years.

Meanwhile, Russia is aggressively continuing with its agenda and playing to win. It has expanded missile strikes across Ukraine to the highest level we have seen this year. Its domestic production of missiles is greater than at the beginning of the war.

Today Putin controls nearly 20% of Ukraine’s territory. Ukraine’s counteroffensive last year moved the front lines less than 25 kilometers. It is starting 2024 in a weakened position. Without military support from the United States and the EU, Zelensky will be pushed to negotiate.?

President Vladimir Putin will be running for a fifth term in office this year which will likely keep him in power until at least 2030. For many his victory is a foregone conclusion. He has been either president or prime minister since 1999. Leading opposition figure Alexei Navalny was the last remaining hope for democratic change in Russia and he mysteriously died in prison last week. With his death, Putin can tighten his grip on power.

Standing With Ukrainian Refugees is Equally Crucial

Standing with Ukrainian refugees — those who have been impacted the most and who will play a key role in Ukraine’s future reconstruction — is equally crucial. The destruction and human toll since day 1 have been brutal. Most have endured unimaginable loss and displacement, with the majority seeking refuge in Poland and neighboring countries. Hundreds of thousands of them are also here in the United States.

The overwhelming majority of Ukrainian refugees are women and children. Today, Upwardly Global remains steadfast in its commitment to assisting Ukrainian refugees as they navigate the challenges of resettlement and seek employment opportunities aligned with their expertise.?

Our work is founded on an innovative model that seeks to go beyond immediate relief efforts and focus on refugees' long-term well-being and economic inclusion. Since we started serving Ukrainian refugees in 2022, we have helped over 1,300 job seekers access free resources and have placed 212 alumni in skill-aligned, well-paying jobs.

Having traveled to Poland twice to launch our workforce inclusion services there and personally meet refugees, I can’t underscore the urgency of our mission enough.

Why is this aspect of refugee work particularly important in the Ukrainian context?

?? Promoting financial independence among refugees not only facilitates their integration in host communities, it also mitigates the likelihood of rejection in host communities.

?????? Embracing a model of inclusion strengthens local economies and communities, demonstrating that refugees are not a burden but an asset. Harnessing the talent of Ukrainian refugees can contribute significantly to Poland's economy. Fostering an environment of acceptance and opportunity empowers refugees to thrive and contribute meaningfully.

?? Supporting refugees in developing their skills and leveraging their potential generates human and financial capital that will be indispensable for the eventual rebuilding of Ukraine. Investing in their future is investing in the future of their home country.

Helping Refugees Thrive in the Short, Medium and Long Term

While Ukrainian refugees have been greeted by generosity, not enough is being done to help them access skill-aligned work and thrive. Most (65%) have been able to find a job, but this number does not capture the underemployment issue. We must also start thinking of how we can do more to set refugees up for success as humanitarian aid decreases over time.?

Businesses, policymakers, and refugee support organizations must prioritize inclusive practices and language training to ensure Ukrainian refugees in Poland and the rest of Europe have access to more opportunities at their skill level in the short-term. Looking towards the future, the international community should invest more in the models, systems, and practices that support Ukrainian refugees’ professional and economic empowerment over the medium and even long term.?