Thousands of people took to the streets of Dublin today to mark the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The ‘Walk With Ukraine’ demonstration began at the GPO at 11am before moving towards Merrion Square.
Similar demonstrations are being held throughout the country today, including one at Grand Parade in Cork.
Hope
Ukrainian Action in Ireland volunteer Olive Addams told Newstalk they are not giving up hope of victory against Russia.
“Today is marking what is a very tragic day for us, two years on from when Russia began a full-scale invasion,” she said.
“We are here today to bring this to the attention of the people of Ireland that we are still fighting and we still need help.
“We need to fight back and protect Europe.”
Sensitive
Ms Addams said Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a “sensitive subject” for her.
“The genocide in our country is still happening and it shouldn’t be tolerated,” she said.
“When it all started, I thought it would last long, but I could not imagine standing here today [in Dublin] two years after and still looking for help.
“We are still seeing all of the war crimes and horrendous events right now in Ukraine.”
Support
Ukrainian refugee Sasha, aged 15, said she was at the demonstration to support her country.
“Today is a big day for Ukrainians in the worst sense of it,” she said.
“Two years ago, the full-scale invasion started and I’m just here to support my nation and to tell the world that the war is still happening – it’s still going on.”
Ireland
Sasha said she has lived in Ireland for a year and a half now.
“My experience was pretty nice, I really love my house and staying in Ireland as the people are really nice to me – but I miss home and dream of going back,” she said.
“We are still here and we accept this experience as temporary as we really want to go home and build our lives there – rather than stay here.
“Ireland is nice, but there is no other place like home.”
Sasha said she hopes people keep standing with and supporting Ukraine as Russia’s “full-scale invasion” enters its third year.
Reporting by Sheila Naughton.
Main image: Ukrainians gather on O'Connell Street, Dublin, to mark 365 days of the Ukraine war, 24/02/2023.
