The Academy Awards held a moment of silence in support of Ukraine.

A tribute that started with words from the Ukrainian-born Mila Kunis ended with the Academy Awards fading to black about midway through Sunday’s show from Los Angeles, with a plea for anyone watching to do whatever possible to send help to those in the war-torn nation.

“Recent global events have left many of us feeling gutted,” Kunis said as she took the stage, part of her remarks to introduce Reba McIntyre’s performance of the Oscar-nominated song “Somehow You Do” from “Four Good Days.”

“Yet when you witness the strength and dignity of those facing such devastation, it’s impossible to not be moved by their resilience,” Kunis continued. “One cannot help but be in awe of those who find strength to keep fighting through unimaginable darkness.”

That’s when McIntyre took the stage, dressed in a black gown, for her performance.

 

When McIntyre’s song ended, a large video screen hovering over the stage displayed a tribute and a plea as the 30-second moment of silence began.

“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,” read the screen. “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 scarce and we — collectively as a global community — can do more.”

It then ended with a display of the following: “We ask you to support Ukraine in any way you are able. #StandWithUkraine.”

READ MORE: Jamie Lee Curtis On Showing Support For Ukraine: ‘I Just Want To Represent The Refugee Crisis’

 

The balance between celebrating art while Russia’s invasion of Ukraine rages on has been a delicate one for the Oscars.

Jamie Lee Curtis, Diane Warren, South-Korean actress Youn Yuh-jung, Jason Momoa and more showed their support for Ukraine with their fashion. Curtis, Warren and Youn Yuh-jung sported blue and gold “With Refugees” ribbons, while Momoa wore a blue and yellow pocket square.

READ MORE: Amy Schumer Pitched Ukraine President Zelenskyy To Appear At The Oscars

Ahead of the Oscars, host Amy Schumer and Sean Penn said they were hoping to have Ukrainian President Zelenskyy speak in some form at the awards show on Sunday.

READ MORE: Sean Penn Encourages ‘Everyone Involved’ To Boycott The Oscars If President Zelenskyy Is Not Featured, Pledges To ‘Smelt’ His Oscar Awards 

Penn urged the Academy to invite President Zelenskyy to speak either through Zoom or a taped video message, and he said he would “smelt” his Oscar trophies if the president of Ukraine didn’t receive an invitation to have a platform at the awards ceremony.

~ With files from Associated Press