'We just want to exist': Ukrainian-Canadians mark second anniversary of war
CTV
Hundreds gathered in downtown Vancouver Saturday to mark a grim anniversary – two years since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Hundreds gathered in downtown Vancouver Saturday to mark a grim anniversary – two years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
People draped themselves with the blue and yellow Ukrainian flag, prayed and held signs stating: “The war is not over. Ukraine is still fighting for its freedom.”
On Feb. 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, seeking to take control of it, despite the country being independent since 1991 when the Soviet Union dissolved.
It was an emotional day for many as they grieved the loss of family and friends.
Oksana Gurska solemnly held a book of poetry dedicated to her partner, a Ukrainian soldier who has been sentenced to 25 years in a Russian prison.
“I can’t get any information about my best friend,” she said. “It’s very difficult to stay in Canada because my body is here, but my soul is in Ukraine.”
Like Gurska, Olena Lysenka is from Kyiv and came to Canada shortly after the war began.
