Ukraine marks 1 year since Russian invasion

One year ago today Russian forces invaded Ukraine and to date, over seven thousand Ukrainian civilians have died, with millions more displaced as a result of the fighting.

Thunder Bay Branch President of the League of Ukrainian Canadians Walter Warywoda says while the images of destruction are a daily sight, he remains optimistic for the future.

“There’s hope and there’s some pride in the remarkable Ukrainian resilience in the face of the crimes and evil that Russia has perpetrated against Ukraine, so lets hope this is the only anniversary we’ll have to recognize.”

According to Warywoda there are no rallies or remembrance ceremonies planned for the Thunder Bay area however next month there will be a fundraising event involving a much beloved local treat.

“Blue and yellow Persian month, in the month of March, which is just around the corner and we’re very grateful to Danny Nucci and the Persian Man and that money be to support Ukrainian humanitarian efforts.”

Meanwhile Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remains committed to the cause.

While speaking with reporters on Thursday the Prime Minister indicated Canada will continue to support Ukraine in the conflict as long as it lasts.

“Canada will continue to do whatever is necessary to ensure that Russia does not benefit from having illegally invaded Ukraine.”

Since the outbreak of the war Canada has already committed $1 billion in funding and military resources to Ukraine, including over 250 armoured vehicles and over 4,500 rocket launchers.

On that kind of assistance Warywoda is also grateful.

“The help that has been provides has been absolutely incredible and its ongoing so Ukrainians and Ukrainian Canadians are extremely grateful for the support that has been provided world wide.”

To him it also confirms Ukraine is on the side of what is morally right.