Ukrainians in Australia urge public to support political prisoners in Crimea with letters

The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO) is calling on the public to write letters to Ukrainian political prisoners held in the Russian-occupied peninsula of Crimea in Ukraine. 

Russia is now illegally detaining 221 Ukrainians on the territory that it illegally annexed in 2014 — including 133 Crimean Tatars who are indigenous to the peninsula.

“Political prisoners have been targeted by russia for practicing their faith, speaking out against the war, defending human rights, or simply being Ukrainian,” AFUO said.

A letter can be a powerful lifeline for someone in Russian captivity, they said. 

“A few heartfelt words can remind someone unjustly imprisoned that they are not forgotten. It also shows the prison administration that the world is watching,” the organization said.

Here’s how to write:

• Make it personal — Share about your life, experiences, and the outside world
• Offer support — Let them know they’re not alone
• Write in Russian — Letters in other languages may not be delivered
• Avoid politics or codes — Don’t mention slogans, cases, or escapes

“This small act can bring real connection, hope, and strength to someone behind bars,” AFUO said.

You can find the mailing address and more information at the following link.