Hello Readers, 

Thank you very much, Jui, for inviting me to speak to everyone about the war that is going on and it is a big issue - for it also affects wizards and witches alike. Yes, I want to talk about Russia and Ukraine, two great countries despite the war. Perhaps, in your immediate thoughts, you will have it in your head: Russia: Evil, Ukraine: Innocent. But is it? No, don’t look at me like that! I have nothing against Ukraine and I speak through the eyes of a Russian. Yes, “I speak it”. I’m a proud Russian and I think that both countries are in the wrong. Indeed, neither Russia nor Ukraine are innocent. May I say, I don’t want this article to be a source of spite, bitterness or offense. I promise to try and speak equally about the countries. Ah, I perhaps may not look elegant but my words are. 

Now, first, let me take you through a Ukrainians point of view. I am scared, frightened as the news flies that my home is no longer safe and we need to evacuate. From my beloved home country, leaving my grandparents because they have bad health and can’t travel. I would hate Russia bitterly. 

Now, I speak of me. How I feel. The news ripple about the country (I don’t live in Russia now, we moved three years ago). People mutter and whisper about me at school, just because I’m from a different race. Support Ukraine days are held, telling you to dress up in blue or yellow and bring some money in. I’m honest with you, my parents didn’t see that message. I came to school in uniform. A girl passed me, asking me to drop some pennies that you brought in for the refugees. I could have almost melted in embarrassment. How was I meant to know that? Even online this issue is getting a bit violent. I will not name anyone but on this very website - it spreads. A Russian girl was speaking to someone, quite civilly yet not exactly singing praises but her tone seemed polite. The answer? Well, fine, let me tell you. (I can speak, read and write in Russian so I can translate what the person said): Russia are showing there ****. It made me feel by just looking at that as if no one will ever like me. Before, I want to mention some of Russia’s great achievements, regardless of the war.

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  Yuri Gagarin was the first man in space.

  
  


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  Laika, the first dog in space.

  
  


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  The first woman, Valentina Tereshkova was in space.

  
  

Now, don’t get me wrong! Ukraine has fantastic people as well. Brilliant models, singers and much more. Now, excuse me if any of this displeased you. I have written this in my point of view and I am still scared for the rest of my family that are still in the country,

Respectfully, 

Narcissa Adalinda Slytherin

(Any compliments, well-wishers or supportive of what I wrote, please post so on my wall https://www.hogwartsishere.com/1380959/)