Oscars 2022: Mila Kunis praises resilience of Ukrainian people as Oscars holds moment of silence
The Ukraine-born actor spoke passionately about ‘recent global events’
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Mila Kunis has praised the “resilience” of Ukrainian people while speaking at the Oscars.
The actor, who was born in Ukraine, spoke about Russia’s ongoing invasion of the country during her speech at the awards ceremony.
The actor spoke about the war when introducing Best Song nominee Reba McEntire.
“Recent global events have left many of us feeling gutted,” said Kunis. “Yet when you witness the strength and dignity of those facing such devastation, it’s impossible to not be moved by their resilience.
“One cannot help but be in awe of those who find strength to keep fighting through unimaginable darkness.”
Following Kunis’s speech, a screen at the ceremony asked viewers and audience members for a “moment of silence”.
Text on the screen said: “We’d like to have a moment of silence to show our support for the people of Ukraine currently facing invasion, conflict and prejudice within their own borders.”
A second slide read: “While film is an important avenue for us to express our humanity in times of conflict, the reality is millions of families in Ukraine need food, medical care, clean water, and emergency services.
“Resources are scares, and we – collectively as a global community – can do more.”
The third screen continued: “We ask you to support Ukraine in any way you are able. #StandWithUkraine.”
Elsewhere in the ceremony, fans shared their reactions to the emotional moment Rita Moreno watched Ariana DeBose win Best Supporting Actress for her role in West Side Story, an award that Moreno won for the same role 60 years earlier.
You can follow along with live updates from the Oscars here.
Find the full list of 2022 Oscar winners here.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments