Ukrainian communities around the world marked Ukraine’s Defenders Day On Oct. 1, a day of gratitude and remembrance that unites Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine. Ceremonies, solidarity events, rallies, cultural events, and charitable activities were held in various countries to honor the heroes and support those currently defending Ukraine.
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) called to honor the brave Ukrainians who have fought for the country’s freedom and independence for centuries. The global umbrella organization that represents millions of Ukrainians also urged Kyiv’s allies and partners to provide the necessary weapons and support for victory and to strengthen sanctions and pressure on Russia.
“On this Day of the Defenders of Ukraine, we honour the sacrifices of those who have fought and fight now for Ukraine’s freedom. We ask God to grant Ukraine victory,” the UCC said.
The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organizations (AFUO) called on Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine to join in supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
“It is a day of gratitude and remembrance — paying tribute to fallen soldiers, active service members, veterans, officers, and combat medics,” the AFUO said.
The Ukrainian Congress Committee of America (UCCA) honored Ukraine’s defenders and called on everyone to support the military by recognizing their courage and selfless sacrifice against Russian aggression.
A rally was held in New York to remind the world of the price Ukraine pays to defend the shared values of the democratic world, the Svitanok organization reported. Dozens of people gathered downtown with signs.
“People from all over the world had an opportunity to send support letters to our defenders on the frontline. We are grateful to Ukrainian soldiers for protecting not only Ukraine, but the Europe and the world from Russian terror,” the organizers said.
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A solemn ceremony was held at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris to mark Ukraine’s Defenders Day. Attendees observed a moment of silence to honor Ukraine’s heroes, Volodymyr Kogutyak, UWC Vice President for Western Europe and Association of Ukrainians in France (AUF) Vice President, reported.
The Association of Ukrainian Organizations in Germany sent drawings made by young Ukrainians from Augsburg to defenders on the Zaporizhzhia front.
“Our defenders are the only reliable shield against an enemy that has long tried to erase everything Ukrainian and prevent the existence of an independent state,” the community said.
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Ukrainians in Valencia, Spain, marked Defenders of Ukraine Day by sending a new shipment of humanitarian aid to Ukraine, Mykhaylo Petrunyak, president of the Federation of Associations of Ukrainians in Spain, reported.
The “Strong in Spirit” competition was held in Spain, organized by Ukraine’s Ministry for Veterans Affairs, the Ukrainian Strongman Federation, the Alcobendas City Hall, and several philanthropic organizations, Yuri Chopyk, head of the Ukrainian community of Spain for the Rights, Honor, and Dignity of Ukrainians, reported.
“These competitions were held symbolically on the eve of Defenders of Ukraine Day, highlighting the extraordinary strength of spirit, courage, and the tremendous effort our Heroes make to return to normal life,” Chopyk said.
Portugal held its first official ceremony on Oct. 1 honoring the Defenders of Ukraine, Pavlo Sadokha, Vice President of the UWC for Southern Europe and President of the Union of Ukrainians in Portugal, reported.
Ukrainians in New Zealand held a rally in Auckland on the eve of Defenders of Ukraine Day, the Mahi For Ukraine reported. The community also honored those who have fallen for Ukraine’s freedom.
“Our defenders are the reason Ukraine stands. They protect not only Ukrainian homes, families, and future, but also the very principles of freedom and sovereignty that matter everywhere,” the community said.
In Istanbul, the Taras Shevchenko Lyceum held a themed event marking Ukraine’s Defenders Day, Ukrainian Cossacks Day, and the Feast of the Intercession of the Holy Virgin.
“Students and teachers paid tribute to the heroism of Ukrainian soldiers. Amid the full-scale war, this day stands as one of the most important national and religious celebrations of the year,” the Ukrainian Cultural Society said.
Ukrainians in the Netherlands organization visited Mustafa Ablyamitov, a Crimean Tatar war veteran, on Oct. 1. He is undergoing long-term treatment in a medical facility in the province of Utrecht after a serious war wound. The attendees also honored the memory of fallen heroes.
The Association of Ukrainians in the Republic of Ireland reported that a unique dance performance took place in Dublin, inspired by the work of Ukrainian director Sasha Kurmaz, “Untitled,” 2024. The performance tells the story of two sisters who danced on the graves of fallen soldiers during the full-scale invasion to honor their memory.
Demonstrations were also held in Helsinki and Oslo, a moment of silence observed in Riga, a film screening in Tampere, and fountains in Zagreb were illuminated in the colors of the Ukrainian flag.
Additionally, upcoming ceremonies are planned for the Canadian city of Edmonton, London, Abu Dhabi, and South Africa, where events marking Defenders of Ukraine Day will take place on Oct. 4.
On Oct. 5, Ukrainians in Winnipeg will host an autumn fair, while the community in Lebanon will hold its traditional annual picnic celebrating the Feast of the Intercession. Details are available via the link.
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