Monday marked 35 years since the country gained its independence, with the war for its survival well into a fifth gruelling year.
Around 100 people turned out on Centre Square in front of Middlesbrough Town Hall to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day on Monday (August 24).
Members of Middlesbrough’s Ukrainian community attended to hear speakers including Petro Rewko MBE, chair of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain, and Middlesbrough South & East Cleveland MP Luke Myer.
Ukrainian children performed a song, and the Ukrainian flag was raised above the Town Hall while the country’s national anthem played.
The event was organised by Councillor Luke Henman, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Children’s Services, in co-ordination with social inclusion charity Investing in People and Culture.
Cllr Henman said: “I’m proud to stand by Ukraine and show solidarity with our Ukrainian community - their security and democracy is our security and democracy.
“Yesterday was the 35th Ukrainian Independence Day, and after four years of war, celebrating the country’s freedom and democracy and self-determination is more important than ever.
“What was meant to be over in days has turned into a grinding conflict with the Ukrainian armed forces and civilians standing firm against aggression and appalling brutality.
“This illegal invasion doesn’t just impact Ukrainians - it poses a serious threat to the UK’s prosperity and security too, and that’s why it’s vital that we continue to stand with Ukraine and show our support.”
