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(CNN)<\/cite>Hayden Panettiere, who has a 7-year-old daughter with Ukrainian former professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko, has set up a relief fund for those fighting to defend Ukraine. <\/p>\n \nOn Wednesday, Panettiere founded Hoplon International, an organization aimed at raising vital funds for medical supplies and protective equipment for Ukrainians. <\/p>\nKlitschko’s brother Vitali Klitschko is the mayor of Kyiv.<\/p>\nAlthough her daughter is safe and not currently in Ukraine, Panettiere tells CNN she cannot “continue to sit on the sidelines” and watch people suffer in the country where she has friends and family. <\/p>\n“There are no words to describe what it was like to watch the war in Ukraine,” she said. “It is heartbreaking to know that the people of Ukraine, people I call my friends and family, are desperate to defend their way of life in a country they love.”<\/p>\nThe name of the relief organization has historical significance.<\/p>\n\u201cHoplons were shields used by the ancient Greeks. With this in mind, Hoplon International is directing the support of the world community to the frontlines in Ukraine, where outnumbered, outnumbered, and mostly civilian forces are fighting to defend their country and way of life. and their fellow citizens,” says the organization’s mission statement.”<\/p>\nPanettiere said she created the organization to ensure aid is distributed directly and quickly to where it is most needed. <\/p>\n“I have witnessed firsthand the strength of the Ukrainian people who have fought so hard for their independence and have passionately defended their country over the years,” the “Nashville” actress wrote on social media in February. “I ask 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.”<\/p>\n