The piece opens by illustrating the hardship faced by Ukrainians during winter as their country endures brutal attacks on critical infrastructure by a neighboring aggressor. The author highlights how such attacks aim to dismantle the very basics of life—electricity, heating, and access to necessities—while the international community tends to label Ukrainians as 'resilient' in every situation.

The author argues that this narrative of resilience, while often meant to inspire, ultimately diminishes the desperate reality Ukrainians live every day. By framing their existence in terms of resilience, policymakers and audiences might overlook the immediate humanitarian needs and the impact of continuous assaults on civilian life, leading to a form of emotional fatigue that dismisses the urgent call for tangible support from the international community.

Finally, the article emphasizes the importance of recognizing the complexities and depth of suffering experienced by Ukrainians. It calls for a shift in language and perspective, advocating for a focus on empathy and action rather than simply labelling people as resilient, which can mask the dire conditions of war and underresponsibility by powerful nations to provide real assistance and intervention. The ongoing conflict requires actionable responses rather than empty praises of courage.