On the 24th of February 2022, Russian president Vladimir Putin announced “a special military operation” in eastern Ukraine. Moments later missiles struck across multiple Ukrainian cities, including the capital city of Kyiv. This was the start of an ongoing attempt to invade the country.
Since then, protests have broken out across the world condemning Putin’s attacks. Protestors are also demanding that world leaders enforce serious sanctions upon Russia and offer more support to Ukraine.
Rising East joined London’s first major protest against the invasion, in Trafalgar Square. London’s Ukrainian community led the way, wrapped in their national flag and carrying picket signs bearing profound messages about the attacks on their homeland. The rest of the crowd was made up of people from many different backgrounds and communities who came to uplift and support Ukraine’s people.
The crowds listened intently as speeches were made into a microphone by various protestors. Women, men and children shared their stories and fears about family back home in Ukraine. They also told the crowd what they would like the UK government to do in response to the brutal invasion.
Chanting from the crowd roared across Trafalgar Square in between speakers: “End the bloodshed”; “Protect our sky”; “Thank you UK” and “Het Bonhe” – which translates from Russian as “No War”.
Signs emblazoned with messages of alliance from other countries, including Russia, could be seen waving above the sea of people.
The demonstrators listened intently to speeches in which women, men and children shared their stories and fears about family back home in Ukraine – and about what they would like the UK government to do in response to the invasion.
This Sunday March 6th a coalition of organisations are organising a Global Day of Action with three demands: Stop the War in Ukraine. Russian Troops Out. No to NATO Expansion.
To join the London event meet at Portland Place, London W1A 1AA at 12 noon. Other protests around the country are listed here.
