National unity key to defeating Russia, says Ukrainian defender

The Armed Forces of Ukraine face a daunting challenge in defeating a powerful and resource-rich enemy like Russia on their own. Ukrainian citizens must unite as a nation to overcome the occupiers and protect their country, said Ukrainian defender Oleksandr Yarmak in an interview with journalist Angelina Taran in Canada.

“We’ve visited three cities in Canada and see that many Ukrainians care deeply, support our country, and make significant donations. These are the kind of Ukrainians we want back home,” said Yarmak, who leads the drone battalion of the 412th Brigade “Nemesis.”

Yarmak is currently participating in the 2026 One United Fundraiser tour, organized by the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC), the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation, and Nemesis, in partnership with Saint Javelin.

He emphasized that pooling financial, material, and human resources, along with continuous support from Ukrainians worldwide, directly strengthens military safety, provides essential equipment, and helps reduce casualties on the frontlines.

The One United Fundraiser events continue across North America. For detailed information about the tour, attending events, or making a donation, visit unitewithukraine.com/one-united-fundraiser.

The campaign’s goal is to raise 1 billion hryvnias (approximately $24 million). Since its launch in Ukraine, nearly 198 million hryvnias have been collected, prompting organizers to reach out to the Ukrainian diaspora and friends of Ukraine in North America.