‘Freedom isn’t free’: Ukrainians ready to fight Russia


While under attack by Russian forces, some Ukrainians have expressed hope that they can win this war. Ukraine broke away from Russia in 1991 when the Soviet Union fell, but Russian officials have maintained a desire to reintegrate Ukraine.

“We will definitely win,” Vlad Zuiev, a Kyiv resident, said. “I know that.”

Zuiev went on to describe the conflict as “the final fight for the Ukrainians’ freedom.”

Zuiev likened the circumstances to those of the American Revolution.

“And it’s really our war for independence right now,” Zuiev said. “So please, we really need help.”

Straight Arrow
Fear No Fact.

Don't just take our word for it.


Center-rated reporting

According to media bias experts at AllSides

AllSides Center-rated reporting May 2026

Transparent and credible

Awarded a perfect reliability rating from NewsGuard

100/100

Welcome back to trustworthy journalism.

Find out more

Straight Arrow
Fear No Fact.

Don't just take our word for it.


Center-rated reporting

According to media bias experts at AllSides

AllSides Center-rated reporting May 2026

Transparent and credible

Awarded a perfect reliability rating from NewsGuard

100/100

Welcome back to trustworthy journalism.

Find out more