Why has Russia invaded Ukraine?

On 22 February 2022 Russia invaded one of its neighbouring countries – Ukraine.

There has been conflict between the two countries since 2014 and despite Russia building up a lot of troops on the border, many people were still shocked when Russian President Vladimir Putin actually sent the Russian army to invade.

Since then the world has been urging Mr Putin to stop his attacks. Ukraine’s army has been fighting against the Russian army, and the rest of the world has been using other methods with the aim of forcing Russia to stop its actions.

(Source: BBC Newsround)

Here are some useful links to resources that may help you understand what is going on…

• BBC News 
• BBC Newsround 
• First News – Children and Young People’s Newspaper
• Fact Sheets 
• How to talk about conflict
• The Story of Russia and Ukraine
• Resources for Teachers

You may have some confusing feelings on what is going on…

There are lots of people you can speak to if you are feeling worried or uncertain about anything.

• Black Country Healthcare Foundation Trust 24/7 Helpline: 0800 0086 516
• CAMHS – Single Point of Access on 0121 612 6620 9am-5pm Monday to Friday or via the team mobile on 07816075218 5pm to 8pm and at weekends.
• The Kaleidoscope Plus Group – Mental health support
• Kooth – An online mental wellbeing community
• Murray Hall’s Building Braver Minds
• BEAM Sandwell – Emotional health & well-being service
• SHOUT – A confidential text support service
• Papyrus – Prevention of young suicide
• Childline – For those aged 19 and under, with any worry
• Samaritans – For any age, for any worry
• Health for Teens – The school nursing website in Sandwell

It can sometimes be difficult to find factual information about the current situation.

Linked below are some helpful sites you may want to have a look at: 

• BBC News
• ITV News 
• Newsround
• iNews Teens
• Independent Teens

Please Note: All of the above information is correct as of 11th March 2022.