Russia’s military operations in Ukraine have left people stunned and caused fear and outrage on social media, where many are calling for a stop to the war and some comparing the situation to the outbreak of World War III.

“War is not a solution to a problem, it is a problem in itself,” said one user, sharing a video of a Ukrainian father saying goodbye to his daughter before going off to war.

One person penned down an emotional piece of poetry on the aftermath of war.

On Thursday, Russia began a large scale military attack on Ukraine on the orders of Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to BBC, “There are reports of attacks on Ukrainian military infrastructure across the country, and Russian convoys entering from all directions.”

About 10 civilian casualties have been reported in Ukraine. A Ukrainian presidential adviser said that more than 40 soldiers had died and dozens more were wounded. Ukraine said it had killed 50 Russian troops.

Hundreds of anti-war protests are taking place in Ukraine, USA and even Russia, where people are speaking up against the outbreak of war.

“While the whole world hates Russians, Russians suffer at rallies in support of Ukraine and oppose the war!” said one user posting a video of a person being assaulted by policemen at a rally.

Users urged world leaders to “learn from history” and to “not repeat it.”

Inevitably memes, that have now become a coping mechanism for people, were shared to express the fear of having WWIII on the brink.

One user said that although humour is a coping mechanism for many in times of tragedy, we must not forget the millions of lives are at stake due to the military operation.