Around 3,500 people marched in support of Ukraine in Brussels on Sunday, marking two years from Russia’s invasion of the country on February 24, 2022.
From 11 am, yellow and blue flags were seen in abundance at the intersection of Boulevard Anvers and Boulevard King Albert II, near Rogier square.
Signs read “Free the Ukrainian hostages” and “If Ukraine wins, democracy wins”. The procession proceeded down Boulevard Pacheco before heading for Albertine Square, where speeches were held.
Promote Ukraine, the group that initiated the rally, expressed concern about the fading attention on the conflict from politicians, media, and citizens, as time wears on. “Two years of death, loss, and resilience demand our attention and collective action,” the organisation stressed.
Besides the threat the Russian invasion poses for the protection of European values such as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law, the organisers highlighted the “disruption caused by Russia within media outlets, businesses, social networks, political offices, and the economic and energy sectors, as well as within culture.”
The demonstration was intended to serve as a “powerful declaration” at the heart of Europe, aiming to remind European Union leaders and citizens that Ukraine’s fate is “directly tied to the wider European struggle for democracy and human rights”.
Promote Ukraine also highlighted the importance of the upcoming European elections, stating “that outcome will be decisive for the future of Europe and its ability to resist Russia.”
