Broken cities, strong hearts – ongoing prayers for Ukraine
- 1 day ago
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On the fourth anniversary of the war in Ukraine, The Salvation Army is still working to help all those affected.
Territorial Commander in Eastern Europe, Colonel Joao-Paulo Ramos said: “We continue to pray for everyone involved, including Salvation Army colleagues, volunteers, refugees, and all families and communities who have been directly impacted. And we lift our prayers to ask the Lord to bring a peaceful end to this conflict.”
Yesterday (24 February 2026) marked four years since the war in Ukraine began, with millions still displaced and in need as humanitarian support continues across Europe.
Today, in his live, televised address to the world, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke about the spirit of the Ukrainian people and that the nation “will do everything to secure peace and justice”.
Four years on, fighting endures across many regions of Ukraine. Shelling and missile and drone strikes are still a daily reality for civilians. Humanitarian organisations report that needs remain extremely high. Around 10.8 million people across Ukraine are expected to require humanitarian assistance in 2026. Communities near front lines and in occupied territories continue to face limited access to electricity, heating, clean water and medical care.
VIEW MORE: The Salvation Army responding in Ukraine
Displacement remains widespread. More than six million Ukrainians are living abroad as refugees, while approximately 3.7 million people are internally displaced within Ukraine. Millions of homes and essential buildings have been damaged or destroyed, creating ongoing housing shortages and recovery challenges.
The prolonged conflict has also had a deep psychological impact. Many adults and children are experiencing anxiety, trauma and post-traumatic stress linked to years of instability and displacement.
European response
Since the war began, The Salvation Army has been responding to the crisis not only in Ukraine but also across Europe.
In Ukraine and neighbouring countries, teams have distributed food, hygiene kits, water, blankets, clothing and other essential supplies. Support has also extended to countries hosting refugees, including Poland, Moldova, Romania, Bulgaria, Georgia and the United Kingdom.
In several countries, including Scotland, Latvia and Bulgaria, food and grocery vouchers have been provided to help families purchase essential items according to their needs. Across the UK, Salvation Army centres have become community hubs for Ukrainian refugees. At centres in Sunderland Monkwearmouth and Ramsgate, practical and emotional support is offered through coffee mornings, job-search assistance, housing advice, bilingual worship, children’s holiday activities and social events.
Beyond meeting physical needs, The Salvation Army is focusing on providing emotional and spiritual care for those experiencing prolonged displacement and trauma.
Ongoing commitment
As the conflict continues, The Salvation Army emphasises long-term support, moving beyond emergency aid towards community integration, stability and rebuilding lives. Four years into the war, cities may be broken, but resilience remains strong among those affected and among those who stand alongside them.
Territorial Commander, Colonel Joao-Paulo Ramos said: ‘We continue to pray for everyone involved, including Salvation Army colleagues, volunteers, refugees, and all families and communities who have been directly impacted. We also lift our prayers to ask the Lord to bring a peaceful end to this conflict’.
This story first appeared on The Salvation Army international website here.
