Russia Is Relentlessly Bombing Ukraine. Here's How You Can Ask For More Air Defense

Russia is relentlessly hammering Kharkiv—the second biggest Ukrainian city—with countless drones and missiles, killing civilians and destroying critical infrastructure. Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Kyiv and Chernihiv are being attacked almost daily, too. This is a critical moment for Ukraine. Right now, it needs everyone’s help. Wherever you are in the world, you can write and call your government officials, members of congress, and members of parliament to give Ukraine more Patriot Air Defense Systems to protect ordinary people targeted by Russia in Ukraine. We’ve collated all the information you need into a step-by-step guide.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Start by searching on Google “Find my MP” or “Find my Member of Congress” and add your country. Google will most likely direct you to platforms like www.callcongress.us or www.mysociety.org which will help you easily find the contacts of those you need. Find a phone number or an email address. 

2. Most emails are ignored if it looks like they've been used by a sample or automated. Always try to draft things in your own words. Written letters can be even more effective, so see if you can find a physical address. 

3. Read our bullet points on messaging below for guidance about what you might include. Don't copy them word for word. 

4. It's also good to research a bit about the specific MP or government official you're contacting and get a sense of their position and how to frame it for them.

5. It tends to be even more effective if people make phone calls. For example, in the UK, calls to MPs offices get tracked—so they’re obliged to respond. You can read from the script in the following slides.

So what can you ask for? Main demands:

• Ukraine needs 25 Patriot air defense systems to protect its people from relentless Russian attacks. We ask you to give Ukraine the air defense systems it needs to save human lives.

• The solution lies in a global, unified effort. If our country can’t provide many or any air defense systems, we can let others—who can—know our position. 

• Even a few of these systems would make a huge difference in protecting critical infrastructure, civilians, and the Ukrainian frontline. 

• We must protect ordinary people from Russia’s relentless attacks against peaceful Ukrainian cities.

What do I say when I call? A sample script

Staffer: Hello, [official name] office. Dom speaking. How can I help you today?

You: I am calling you as a voter/citizen of this country/your district to demand immediate action in support of Ukraine. Can I speak to [official name] ?

Staffer: I’m sorry they're not here/unavailable at present. Can I take a message?

You: Yes, please. Would you tell [official name] that I am devastated about the situation in Ukraine and am demanding immediate action in support.

Ukraine needs 25 Patriot air defense systems to protect ordinary people from relentless Russian attacks on its cities. Please demand that our country does so immediately. The solution lies in a global, unified effort. So if our country can’t provide air defense systems, we can let others—who can—know our position. Please do so.

Even a few of these systems would make a huge difference in protecting critical infrastructure, civilians, and the Ukrainian frontline. 

We must protect ordinary people from Russia’s relentless attacks against peaceful Ukrainian cities.

I ask for you to commit to an action. Can you please follow up with me.

What do I write when I email? Sample text for email

Dear  [insert name of MP/Member of Congress]

I am emailing you as a voter/citizen of this country/your district to demand immediate action in support of Ukraine. I am devastated by what Russia is doing with missiles and drones to innocent civilians and infrastructure.  

Ukraine needs 25 Patriot air defense systems to protect ordinary people from relentless Russian attacks on its cities. Please demand that our country does so immediately. The solution lies in a global, unified effort. So if our country can’t provide air defense systems, we can let others—who can—know our position. Please do so. 

Even a few of these systems would make a huge difference in protecting critical infrastructure, civilians, and the Ukrainian frontline. 

We must protect people. I ask for you to commit to action. I would be grateful if you could give the matter your urgent attention. Please follow up with me as to your position on this matter. 

People are not powerless

In the face of relentless Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities, there is an urgent need for global action. Each day brings more devastation and despair to the people of Ukraine, underscoring the critical need for more air defense. While Ukrainians bravely protect their country on the frontlines, others can help protect their cities from abroad. Whether through phone calls or emails, each communication is a step towards saving human lives. Share this guide with others so that they can act too.