The Federation of European Microbiological Societies (FEMS) is appalled by the invasion of Ukraine and stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and all those affected by this senseless and illegal conflict.

FEMS was founded in 1974 to encourage international scientific collaboration and communication and to support European microbiologists during another time of international tension and war. We passionately believe that solutions derive from science, not conflict. What is happening in Ukraine runs contrary to all that FEMS holds dear. Science is global – we should be building connections, not destroying them.

FEMS is working to provide resources and financial assistance to support microbiologists in Ukraine. But all Ukrainians have had their lives turned upside down and innocent lives have already been lost. We also acknowledge that this conflict also affects and isolates Russian and Belarusian scientists – no one benefits from war.

We therefore call on the Russian government to end this invasion immediately. We pledge solidarity with the Ukrainian people, the Society of Microbiologists of Ukraine and, all members of the microbiology community in Ukraine. We hope that this violence ends now, and that peace can begin the restoration of the microbiological community for colleagues in Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus.