On February 24, 2025, Ukraine marked the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, with President Volodymyr Zelensky urging citizens to remember the sacrifices made and lives lost. The day unfolded with a somber atmosphere, devoid of major ceremonies, allowing Ukrainians to silently reflect on their hardships and untold stories of resilience.
Ukraine Commemorates Third Anniversary of Russian Invasion with Reflective Mourning
Ukraine Commemorates Third Anniversary of Russian Invasion with Reflective Mourning
Ukrainians observe February 24 with a focus on remembrance rather than celebration, as they reflect on the profound losses endured since the onset of the conflict.
Olha Shtepan, a Ukrainian refugee living in Hamburg, Germany, shared a poignant memory of that fateful day in 2022, which turned her life upside down. Describing the emotional scars still fresh, she articulated how the invasion remains a wound that has not yet healed. On the day of the invasion, she was babysitting in Kyiv when she felt compelled to rush to Irpin, bringing the children into further danger amid the chaos.
Reflecting on the horrors, Shtepan recounted the agonizing evacuation process, which saw families flee together from the devastation surrounding them. Her recollection of navigating a blown-up bridge encapsulated the grave challenges faced by many Ukrainians at that time. The continuing war reverberates deeply in every corner of Ukraine, with memorials and reminders evident throughout the land.
New memorials have emerged alongside the remnants of destruction, including a poignant installation created by Ukraine Wow, a public organization dedicated to promoting Ukrainian culture. The installation features animated hearts in Kyiv's central railway station that pulse more rapidly with tributes sent in memory of those who have lost their lives due to the ongoing war. The accumulation of grief represented in both old and new memorials highlights the enduring pain felt by many Ukrainians during this especially difficult month.
Maria Varenikova covers Ukraine and its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Reflecting on the horrors, Shtepan recounted the agonizing evacuation process, which saw families flee together from the devastation surrounding them. Her recollection of navigating a blown-up bridge encapsulated the grave challenges faced by many Ukrainians at that time. The continuing war reverberates deeply in every corner of Ukraine, with memorials and reminders evident throughout the land.
New memorials have emerged alongside the remnants of destruction, including a poignant installation created by Ukraine Wow, a public organization dedicated to promoting Ukrainian culture. The installation features animated hearts in Kyiv's central railway station that pulse more rapidly with tributes sent in memory of those who have lost their lives due to the ongoing war. The accumulation of grief represented in both old and new memorials highlights the enduring pain felt by many Ukrainians during this especially difficult month.
Maria Varenikova covers Ukraine and its ongoing conflict with Russia.
