Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis, the well-known Hollywood couple, recently received a personal call from Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the President of Ukraine, who expressed his sincere gratitude for their remarkable contributions to the ongoing humanitarian efforts in response to the war in Ukraine. The call came as a heartwarming recognition of the couple’s impactful actions and their ability to rally support for those suffering from the conflict.
The couple, in collaboration with humanitarian organizations such as FlexPort.org and Airbnb, launched a GoFundMe campaign aimed at raising funds to provide aid to the victims of the war. In an incredible show of generosity and commitment, their campaign has now raised over $35 million. This amount has exceeded the initial target set for $30 million, and continues to grow as more people contribute to the cause. Their efforts are a testament to the power of collective action and the ability of individuals to make a significant difference, even in the face of a global crisis.
The campaign, which kicked off in March, was launched with the goal of not just raising money but also offering hope to those who have been displaced and affected by the brutal war. The couple personally invested $3 million of their own money to get the project off the ground, a gesture that showed their deep commitment to the cause and the importance they placed on helping the people of Ukraine. The funds raised are being directed towards various efforts, including supporting refugees, providing shelter, and addressing other critical needs through the partnership with Airbnb and FlexPort.org.
“Please do not be afraid, you will hear what we live with for already 25 days”
Ukraine’s President Zelensky plays air raid sirens that have become “familiar to every Ukrainian city”https://t.co/dkpwPT1RCj pic.twitter.com/mVVkvooKjz
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) March 21, 2022
In his message to the couple, President Zelenskyy praised their swift and generous response to the humanitarian crisis. He expressed his admiration for their determination and their inspiring efforts, noting that the couple’s campaign was one of the first to actively respond to the crisis with such large-scale support. Sharing a screenshot of his video call with Kutcher and Kunis, Zelenskyy took to social media to publicly acknowledge their incredible impact, stating that the funds they raised were already being sent to organizations like FlexPort and Airbnb to directly support the Ukrainian people. His words reflected the deep appreciation that many in Ukraine feel for the kindness and dedication shown by these individuals.
In a heartfelt message shared through their own platforms, Kutcher and Kunis expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they had received from their followers and donors. They revealed that within just two weeks of launching the campaign, they had reached their initial goal of $30 million, thanks to the more than 65,000 people who contributed. This was a moment of immense pride for the couple, but they were quick to acknowledge that while the financial goal had been met, there was still much work to be done.
The couple emphasized that while their efforts had provided some relief to those affected, they understood that the war’s devastating impact would require long-term solutions and support. They reassured donors that every dollar raised would be handled with the utmost care and respect, as if it were their own money, and would be used to maximize the positive outcomes for those in need. They also committed to ensuring that the funds were directed to where they could make the most immediate impact, particularly in helping people secure housing and meet other urgent needs.
.@aplusk & Mila Kunis were among the first to respond to our grief. They have already raised $35 million & are sending it to @flexport & @Airbnb to help 🇺🇦 refugees. Grateful for their support. Impressed by their determination. They inspire the world. #StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/paa0TjJseu
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) March 20, 2022
For Kunis, the cause holds a deeply personal significance. Born in Ukraine, she immigrated to the United States with her family when she was just a child in 1991. In recent interviews, Kunis has opened up about her complex feelings regarding her homeland and the current conflict. She explained that, for many years, she had distanced herself from her Ukrainian roots, often telling people that she was from Russia instead. The reason for this, she said, was simply that it was easier for people to recognize Russia than Ukraine, and she often felt more connected to her American identity.
However, as the war in Ukraine escalated, Kunis found herself grappling with a new emotional connection to her birthplace. She described a profound feeling of loss and sorrow that overwhelmed her when the invasion began, as if a part of her heart had been torn away. This emotional response led her to take action, using her platform to raise awareness and funds for the victims of the conflict.
In an interview, Kunis explained that she felt the need to speak out against the growing narrative that pits entire nations against each other. She made it clear that while the actions of the Russian government were indefensible, it was important not to generalize or demonize the Russian people. Kunis emphasized that the conflict was not between ordinary people, but rather between those in power. She expressed her belief that it was crucial to make this distinction, in order to prevent further division and to avoid the harmful rhetoric that often emerges in times of war.
Kutcher and Kunis’ efforts are a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, regardless of personal background or political affiliation. The couple’s story exemplifies how individuals can use their platforms and resources to make a real difference, offering hope and support to those in dire need. Their campaign has not only raised significant funds but has also inspired countless others to take action, showing the world that even in the darkest of times, acts of kindness and solidarity can make a profound impact.
As the war in Ukraine continues, the contributions of individuals like Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis will remain a beacon of hope for those who are suffering. Their commitment to the cause reflects a shared sense of humanity and compassion, and their actions continue to inspire others to join the effort. Though the road to peace may be long and uncertain, the collective efforts of people from all walks of life can help bring an end to the suffering and pave the way for a brighter future for the people of Ukraine.