On February 22, hundreds of people in Milan and The Hague came together to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, demonstrating solidarity with the Ukrainian people and their ongoing fight for independence.
In Milan, the march and rally along the city’s central streets was organized by the UaMi community and attended by Ukrainians, Italian supporters, and representatives of the Ukrainian diplomatic corps. Consul General Andriy Kartysh and Consul Anastasiia Nehoda were joined by Italian politicians, including MEP and ENVI Committee Chair Pierfrancesco Maran and Senator Carlo Calenda.
“Yesterday’s march demonstrated our unity and resilience,” the Ukrainian Consulate General in Milan said on Facebook. “It was a powerful reminder that today Ukraine is defending not only its own freedom but also the peace and security of all Europe, democratic principles, and respect for human dignity.”
The consulate expressed gratitude to UaMi for coordinating the event and to everyone who joined, emphasizing the importance of keeping global attention on the ongoing war.
Meanwhile, in The Hague, a commemorative rally was held at Amsterdam’s central square, organized by the “Ukrainians in the Netherlands” Foundation. Dutch citizens, politicians, diplomats, Ukrainian volunteers, and military personnel attended, paying tribute to Ukraine’s defenders.
Ukrainian Ambassador Andriy Kostin addressed the crowd, honoring soldiers who have returned from captivity and remembering those who gave their lives. “They are defending us and the entire civilized world… Thanks to the courage of our soldiers, Ukraine stands today—after 12 years of Russian aggression and four years of Russia’s genocidal war against our country,” he said.
Dutch Minister of Defense Ruben Brekelmans noted the impact of his visits to Ukraine and reinforced the need for ongoing support.
“Every visit left a deep mark on my heart. The military is stopping Russian aggression not only for their country but also for us and all of Europe,” he said.
MEP Thijs Ruten highlighted the psychological and strategic nature of Russia’s attacks on civilian infrastructure, emphasizing that Europe must remain resolute.
“Russia only pretends to seek peace to weaken our resolve, delay support, undermine political will, divide Europe, and deepen differences among transatlantic allies. We will not allow this,” he stated.
Other speakers at the event included D66 member Fatimazgra Belgirch, Volt Party leader Laurence Dassen, Karel Burger Dirven—the first Honorary Consul of Ukraine in the Netherlands—Deputy Mayor of Amsterdam Rutger Groot Wassink, Juliet Brursen (Volt Amsterdam), and Rolien Sasse, director of PAX.
