Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in late February, we have all been aware of the devastating war. Whether it was through news outlets or social media, it seems we couldn’t escape the news coverage.

Over time, the constant exposure in the media has died down, and this let people push it out of their minds and forget about the travesties taking place. Unfortunately, even if we stop hearing about the war, that does not mean it is over. 

When the public loses interest in events like this, it takes the pressure to act off the government. Without people demanding action from the U.S. government, change is slow, and the people of Ukraine will suffer.

U.S. support in the war is essential to the well-being of the people of Ukraine, whether it be from supplies or funding.

The U.S.’s backing of Ukraine in this war, including an approximated $2.98 billion for civilians, is vital to the ongoing war efforts. If the U.S. stops aiding Ukraine, other nations are likely to follow, and Ukraine will have a much higher probability of losing this war.

Below are major updates that have occurred this past week in the Russian-Ukrainian war:

There was a bombing on the Russia-Crimea bridge. Crimea was previously part of Ukraine, but in 2014 it was annexed by Russia. This blatant act of disrespect for the Ukrainian government built up added resentment between the countries, so the attack on the bridge came as little surprise.  

While Ukraine has not officially claimed this attack as its own, widespread celebration throughout the country following the event makes the connection clear.

This bridge was symbolic of Russia’s over-step into Ukraine before the war even started. Destroying it symbolized Ukraine fighting back against this repressive regime. Additionally, Russia used the bridge to receive supplies, so its destruction has left Russia more vulnerable than before.

In direct response to the bridge bombing, Russia sent Iranian drones to bomb dozens of cities in Ukraine including Kyiv, Lviv, Dnipro, and Zaporizhzhia. The missiles did not target military bases or important government buildings, but instead attacked the people of Ukraine.

A reported 70 missiles were launched, and only half of them were shot down by air defense systems. The remaining missiles had devastating impacts. The casualty count is still unknown.

Every week, more events play out that could potentially change the trajectory of the war. It is essential that we pay attention to what happens.

Columns reflect the opinions of the authors and are not necessarily those of the Editorial Board, The Daily Iowan, or other organizations in which the author may be involved.