Hayden Panettiere has launched a fund to help Ukraine's defense against Russia.
"There are no words to describe what it's been like to watch the war in Ukraine unfold. It's gut-wrenching knowing that the people of Ukraine, the people I call my friends and family are desperately trying to defend their way of life in the country that they love," the actress said in a YouTube video. "I created Hoplon International to bring relief and aid directly to Ukrainians on the frontlines. I can't continue sitting on the sidelines as this disaster rages on."
Hayden shares a daughter with former champion boxer Vladimir Klitschko, who is in Kyiv defending his native country amid the Russian invasion.
"Please, please don't sit by idly. Help me by donating any amount that you can," she said. "Together we can make a difference in their fight."
The "Nashville" star, who confirmed that their daughter, Kaya, is safe and not in Ukraine, previously condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin for ordering the invasion.
"I have personally witnessed the strength of the Ukrainian people who fought so hard for their independence and have continued to passionately defend their country over the years. What Putin is doing is an absolute disgrace!," she said on Instagram on Feb. 25. "This horrific moment in history sends a terrifying message: the message that in this day and age, in year 2022, it's okay to violate the rights of free people and allow autocrats like Putin to take whatever they please."
"I'm praying for my family and friends there and everyone who's fighting," she continued. "I wish you had more support and I wish I was there fighting with you! For now, I ask for those of us who can't be there to stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and show your support for #democracy."
Donations to Hayden's foundation can be made at https://www.hoplonintl.org.