On 24 February 2022, Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine, one of its neighbours to the southwest. What we are witnessing in the ongoing Russian-Ukraine War is deeply unacceptable. As part of my security team, Fort Roche Group, based in the UK, some members are directly affected by this conflict, and the pain they are enduring due to the loss of their loved ones in Ukraine has left me with no choice but to speak out. I can no longer remain silent while my team and others suffer through these devastating circumstances.

The ongoing fighting has already claimed dozens of civilian lives, displaced hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians, and, according to the EU, could eventually force up to seven million people to flee. Children, women, and the entire innocent population are bearing the brunt of this senseless and violent cruelty.

As a Somali citizen and as part of the global community, I want to express my unwavering support for Ukraine in this dark time. The people of Somalia, along with myself, are praying for the safety of all those affected by this conflict. It is time for the EU, the international community, and world leaders to step up and take decisive action to stop the Russian assault. Sanctions are no longer enough – lives are being lost every day, and we need immediate measures to address this crisis.

True leadership calls for standing firm in the face of injustice, not allowing oneself to be bullied or threatened by Putin and his administration. The world must act now to end this bloodshed and ensure that humanity can coexist in peace. The time for strong and effective leadership is now.