Memory in Vienna: Ukrainian diaspora calls for support

Memory in Vienna: Ukrainian diaspora calls for support

For the third anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, around 2,500 people gathered in Vienna for an impressive rally. The Ukrainian diaspora and numerous supporters came in front of the parliament, where the Ukrainian ambassador Wasyl Chymynez aimed at those present. He emphasized how strongly the Ukrainians had remained despite the difficult challenges and thanked for the support they have experienced in the past three years. "February 24th is a tragic day for all Ukrainians, but also important for Europe and our friends," said Chymynez.

In his speeches, the representative of the EU Commission in Austria, Patrick Lobis, emphasized that the EU and its Member States have provided support for Ukraine over 134 billion euros. This help includes military, humanitarian and economic measures that will be crucial to achieve a fair and permanent peace. Vienna Vice Mayor Christoph Return moved parallels to his own family history and questioned the current warlike conflicts. An impressive moment was talked about Jaroslaw Basylewytsch, who had lost his family in a Russian rocket attack. He drew attention to the suffering and urged that the polluters had to be punished.

strong European support

Since the beginning of aggression by Russia in February 2022, the EU has consistently taken measures to support Ukraine. The European Parliament has not only condemned Russian aggression, but also imposed extensive sanctions and assured Ukraine political, military and humanitarian aid. In addition, the parliament urges the Ukraine to support an EU accession in its efforts. This support is of central importance for Ukraine in order to maintain its sovereignty and territorial integrity, so it was emphasized in parliament.