If Ukraine Stands, Freedom Stands

By Xhabir Deralla

As a journalist, as a human being, and as someone who has witnessed and resisted propaganda and authoritarian violence — I cannot stay silent.

This war is not “just another war.” It’s a brutal campaign by a terrorist state, led by a regime drenched in blood and lies.

Today, I stand with Ukraine, and with all who refuse to accept the normalization of evil.

Today, I am Ukrainian. Just as I was from day one, when “the little green man” invaded Crimea in 2014.

Call it what you want. I’ve always refused the notions of false balance and “neutrality” in matters of human rights. “Neutrality” in wars of aggression means supporting the aggressor.

I believe that those who resist becoming numb to the monstrosity of the Russian aggressors — those who continue to feel, to care, to stand with the victims — should be proud. They remain human. And I am more confident than ever: Ukraine will win this war.

Every day, millions of us – those who insist on remaining humane and compassionate – are appalled and disgusted by the coldly calculated evil that extinguishes innocent lives. This is cruelty in its rawest, most unapologetic form. It is not madness. It is not chaos. It is a deliberate, strategic campaign of terror, orchestrated by a regime drunk on death and power.

Some will ask (for reasons I no longer feel obliged to entertain): “What about Gaza?” My answer is simple. I feel the same anguish for every innocent life lost, every crime committed against humanity, no matter where it happens. My heart does not discriminate. But this war, this invasion by the Kremlin’s bloodthirsty regime, is different.

It is different because it is not just about Ukraine. It is about the world. If this evil wins, freedom will collapse into darkness everywhere in the world. If it is defeated, we may yet preserve the soul of humanity, the very essence of democracy, dignity, and peace.

I shouldn’t have to explain this. It should be self-evident. And for those who choose not to see what is plain and undeniable, no amount of reasoning will ever be enough.

But for those still willing to listen, let me offer just a few thoughts.

This is not a war between two countries. It is not a tragic misunderstanding of global politics. This is a full-scale invasion by a terrorist state, led by a war criminal, targeting a sovereign nation for daring to choose freedom. The Kremlin regime has unleashed its war machine not only on soldiers, but on civilians – deliberately, methodically, monstrously. Homes, schools, hospitals, power plants… nothing is spared. Not even children.

These are not acts of war by a legitimate state. These are acts of terror. Immoral, calculated, evil.

Each missile that strikes a home, each child buried beneath rubble, is not an accident. It is a doctrine. It is the weaponization of fear and suffering, designed to break the spirit of a people who refuse to bow.

That is why Ukraine must not stand alone. Because this is a frontline of the global battle between tyranny and liberty. If Putin’s terror succeeds, every authoritarian across the globe will be emboldened. If he is defeated, then there is hope – for justice, for peace, and for a world where human life still matters.

Silence is complicity. Neutrality is surrender. Indifference is betrayal.

To remain silent in the face of this is to become complicit. To wait for history to judge is a luxury we cannot afford. This is the moment to act – clearly, courageously, without fear or hesitation.

This is why I write. This is why I speak. This is why I call, again and again, on the free world to act — not tomorrow, but now. With weapons, with aid, with truth, and with solidarity.

These are not just my words. CIVIL – Center for Freedom – the human rights organization that I’m proud to be part of – has consistently and unwaveringly raised its voice, once again issuing a resounding public condemnation of this calculated terror and calling for urgent international action. It is a message of solidarity, of defiance, and of hope – a call that echoes the resolve of millions across the globe who still believe in justice. Our message is simple and urgent: Stand with Ukraine. Defend freedom. Stop the Russian terror. This is not just our duty as citizens of the world – it is the bare minimum we owe the victims and future generations.

Military support, humanitarian aid, political clarity, and international justice — these are not gestures. They are imperatives. They are the frontline in a global battle for what is right and decent and human.

Because if Ukraine stands, freedom stands. If Ukraine falls, so does everything we claim to value.

The memory of the innocent victims demands it. The future of peace commands it.