Three years on from Russia’s invasion, the Ukrainian people have not given up hope. Instead, they will be praying for peace today, and are asking Christians everywhere to join them
“Wake up, the war has begun.”
These were the words every Ukrainian heard on this day three years ago. Some woke up because of explosions, others because of calls from friends or relatives, and some never even slept, sensing the inevitability of what was to come. Ukraine now marks the third anniversary of the full-scale invasion by Russia – the day our lives were divided into ‘before’ and ‘after’.
Three years have passed like one endless day. And during these unbelievably long and painful years, the one we once considered our neighbour has done everything possible to destroy, devastate and wound. Not only were homes and property destroyed, but also dreams and plans. Looking back, we can see the horrific consequences of the enemy’s actions.
More than 55,000 air raid alerts have sounded across different regions of Ukraine - 1,500 in Kyiv alone. More than 14,000 of these ended in explosions. The longest was in the Kharkiv region, lasting for 50 hours. Over the past three years, nearly 10,000 missiles of various types and more than 14,000 drones have been launched into Ukraine from Russian territory.
Losses
According to official statistics, more than 70,000 military personnel and civilians have lost their lives in Ukraine. However, these numbers are significantly understated. Witnesses report that in Mariupol alone – one of the first cities to endure the full horrors of war – around 100,000 to 120,000 civilians were killed. Over the three years of war, more than 120,000 people have been wounded and approximately 15,000 are missing. More than 500 children have died, and nearly 1,000 have been injured – and these are only the official figures.
The Ukrainian Bible Society has distributed more than 1.2 million copies of biblical literature
More than 8 million Ukrainians have left the country, while another 5 million have been forced to relocate within Ukraine after their homes were destroyed or occupied.
According to the Ukrainian government, direct damage to infrastructure exceeds $140 billion. More than 150,000 homes have been either completely destroyed or rendered uninhabitable. Losses to the energy sector amount to more than $10 billion, with over 30 per cent of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure damaged. More than 1,000 educational institutions and 700 medical facilities have been affected.
Impact
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of October 2024, around 9.6 million Ukrainians suffer from mental health issues. Over 90 per cent exhibit at least one symptom of PTSD, and 57 per cent are at risk of developing the disorder. Around 80 per cent of the population experiences constant stress and anxiety. In the first nine months of 2024 alone, more than 50,000 children sought psychological support—three times more than the previous year.
Ukrainians have become less likely to feel love for themselves but more likely to express love toward others. This shift is explained by a strong sense of unity in the face of a common challenge. However, trust in people has diminished significantly—83 per cent of respondents believe it is necessary to be more cautious with others. The war has shattered one of the fundamental human values—trust in the world.
In the early months of the war, shock, confusion and uncertainty prevailed. Over time, these emotions transformed. By the end of 2024, Ukrainians increasingly reported feelings of fatigue, tension and high stress.
Hope
Despite these horrifying figures, the Ukrainian people continue to bravely resist their aggressor. The battle is fought not only on the physical front but also for the hearts and souls of the people. On 12 February 2025, the Verkhovna Rada approved a resolution establishing a National Day of Prayer in Ukraine, to be observed annually on February 24.
And so today, on this sombre day for our country, we, as the Ukrainian Bible Society, recognise that it is also a day of hope.
Over 90 per cent of Ukrainians exhibit at least one symptom of PTSD
Today, we reflect on how God has continually blessed and supported Ukraine throughout these three years. Thanks to the support and involvement of churches, civic and governmental organisations, chaplains, volunteers, and compassionate individuals, the Ukrainian Bible Society has distributed more than 1.2 million copies of biblical literature. This means that more then 1.2 million people who had lost all hope have found it again through reading God’s word and connecting with him.
Employees of the Ukrainian Bible Society, as part of interfaith mobile groups, regularly visit frontline regions, helping those in need both physically and spiritually. Tens of thousands of kilometres travelled, hundreds of tons of humanitarian aid delivered, and thousands of families and individuals supported. Behind these statistics stands the loving hand of God. Children’s laughter, smiles on the faces of adults, tears of gratitude, shared prayers for needs, the pain of grief, and the joy of eternal life – these are the moments the Lord has allowed us to witness.
Tragically, the war continues. But so does God’s love and grace. His arms are open wide, waiting for everyone. He is ready to help, comfort and uplift. The message of hope has become the most precious and necessary thing amid stress, anxiety, tension and uncertainty. And only God’s word can truly bring that hope!
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