As the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches, members of the Ukrainian community across the Tri-State Area are coming together to honor those who have lost their lives and to support ongoing efforts for peace and freedom. Since February 24, 2022, the war has left countless families separated, forced many to flee their homes, and brought immeasurable hardship to Ukraine.
Prayers and Hope Amid the Ongoing War
At All Saints Ukrainian Church in New York’s East Village, Sunday’s service ran longer than usual as special prayers were offered for those lost in the conflict.
For many, like Nina Kravets, the war has deeply affected their personal lives. Nina’s parents, both serving in the Ukrainian military, haven’t been able to reunite with their daughter since the invasion began. “It’s hard. I miss them, but I understand there’s no other way—they’re fulfilling their duty,” she shared.
Another community member, Illia Streekar, spoke of how the war has shaped his family’s life. His son was born just as the war began, and every day since, they have prayed for their loved ones’ safety in Ukraine. “It is constant sadness and tragedy, as well as being strong all the time,” Streekar said.
In a heartfelt message, Rev. Vitaliy Pavlykivskyy urged the U.S. government not to forget Ukraine’s struggle for freedom: “Ask the government of the United States not to forget about Ukraine as a young country fighting for its own freedom.”
To show their support, some parishioners plan to join a rally in Times Square on Monday evening, standing in solidarity with Ukraine as the war enters its fourth year.
New Jersey Teacher Empowers Youth to Help Ukraine
In New Jersey, Ukrainian-American teacher Olga Figol is making a difference by leading a special project to help children in Ukraine. After volunteering at a camp for kids who lost their fathers to the war, she returned home with a mission to bring hope from afar.
Figol and her husband are now working with the Ukrainian American Youth Association’s Passaic Branch to help local children build drones for Ukraine. These drones will serve critical purposes, from supporting front-line operations to assisting in search and rescue missions. “Your smallest deed does have an impact,” Figol said, encouraging young participants to understand the power of their contributions.
Figol also attended a rally in Washington, D.C. over the weekend, reinforcing her unwavering support for Ukraine’s fight for freedom. “We did not start this war. We did not ask for this war. We were attacked,” she emphasized.
Zelenskyy’s Bold Stand for Peace
In a recent interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made headlines when he suggested he would be willing to resign if it would guarantee peace for Ukraine. “If it guarantees peace for Ukraine, if you really need me to resign, I am ready. I can exchange it for NATO,” Zelenskyy stated.
His comments followed accusations from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who falsely claimed that Ukraine started the war and labeled Zelenskyy a dictator. Zelenskyy dismissed the remarks, stating that Trump was misinformed.
Russia Escalates Attacks Ahead of Anniversary
As the somber anniversary approaches, the war shows no signs of slowing. On the eve of the milestone, Russia launched a record-breaking 267 drones into Ukraine, destroying infrastructure and killing at least three people. The attacks highlight the urgent need for continued international support and solidarity with Ukraine’s ongoing fight for freedom and survival.
