Brussels, Belgium – An event commemorating the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine will take place in Brussels on Sunday, February 23.
Organized by the Brussels-based non-profit Promote Ukraine, the gathering aims to serve as both a remembrance of the war’s toll and a strong call to action for continued support for Ukraine.
Scheduled to begin at 14:00 at Place de l’Albertine, the event will feature artistic performances and speeches from activists and civic leaders.
According to Promote Ukraine, the commemoration is meant to reaffirm Europe’s “unwavering commitment” to aiding Ukraine in its ongoing fight against Russian aggression.
“Europe, once the continent of law, suddenly found itself on the playground of force. It didn’t ask for it, but now it must play by those rules to survive and thrive,” said Marta Barandiy, the chair of Promote Ukraine, in a press release.
A Reminder of a War That Began 11 Years Ago
While Russia’s full-scale invasion began on February 24, 2022, Barandiy highlighted that Ukraine has been at war for over a decade, dating back to Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014.
She noted that it has taken years for many Europeans to fully grasp the magnitude of the conflict and the broader security implications for the continent.
“After 11 years of war in Ukraine, all other Europeans are slowly realising we were right from the very beginning: One for all, and all for one,” Barandiy stated.
The event’s timing, taking place just one day before the third anniversary of Russia’s large-scale invasion, is expected to draw significant attention from European policymakers, activists, and members of the Ukrainian diaspora in Belgium.
Advocacy and Mobilization
Promote Ukraine, which operates as a civil society and advocacy organization, has been instrumental in mobilizing support for Ukraine within the European Union.
Through events, partnerships with activists, and engagement with EU decision-makers, the organization aims to amplify Ukrainian voices and ensure that the war remains at the forefront of European political discourse.
This latest commemoration comes amid ongoing discussions within the EU and NATO about military aid, sanctions against Russia, and the long-term security strategy for Ukraine.
With no clear end to the war in sight, events like this seek to maintain public and political attention on the conflict, ensuring that European solidarity does not wane.
A City with Symbolic Importance
Brussels, home to both the EU and NATO headquarters, has been a central hub for discussions on Ukraine’s defense and its aspirations for European integration.
The city has hosted numerous pro-Ukraine demonstrations since the war began, often serving as a focal point for international solidarity.
As the third anniversary approaches, the gathering at Place de l’Albertine is expected to be an emotional and symbolic occasion, highlighting the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the need for continued international support.
With speeches from civic leaders and performances meant to reflect both the struggle and hope of Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty, the event is set to reinforce the message that the battle against Russian aggression is far from over.
