By Samantha Smith
Youngstown State University recently painted the rock in the center of campus the colors of the Ukrainian flag in light of the current conflict.
Students expressed their thoughts and opinions on the current situation between Russia and Ukraine. Carly Houser, a freshman early childhood education major, explained what she has been thinking.
“I think it’s really heartbreaking and sad what’s going on,” she said. “I think it’s best if all of us just try to come together as a country and just work together.”
Anna Maillis, a senior in high school and a College Credit Plus student, felt similarly about the two countries.
“I think it’s just being dragged out and I think it’s very wrong,” she said. “There’s a lot of kids there, and I just think everything going on right now is insane.”
Mason McVicker, a freshman chemical engineering major, added his input on the matter.
“I think it’s horrible,” he said. “I don’t see what Ukraine did wrong recently or anything that has [caused] Russia to advance into Ukraine and take it over.”
Freshman fine arts major Terri Randolph explained that she doesn’t like to get into politics but wants the current situation to dissolve.
“I guess I’m just hoping that everything works out,” she said. “I’m not too into everything that’s happening, but I do know that I really don’t want a war.”
Students also mentioned what they think should be done to help Ukraine in light of the invasions and attacks.
“I feel like we should provide the resources to help them defend,” McVicker said. “But I wouldn’t say get super involved right now until it breaks out super bad.”
Nick Allen, a freshman chemical engineering major, agreed with McVicker.
“I think we should give some resources, food supplies, shelter,” he said. “As of right now, I don’t think we should directly fight unless it is necessary.”
A website, “globalgiving.org” was also painted to promote different charities for students to look through and donate to if they can.
