Vancouver rallies to mark third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine

The event marked three years since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Hundreds gathered at the Vancouver Art Gallery Plaza on Sunday to commemorate the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

It’s one of the many rallies being held across the country to mark the global day of action.

One of the event organizers, Sabrina Furminger, shared why the turnout of the event was meaningful.

“What made my heart feel very good as a Ukrainian-Canadian is to see Canadians, non-Ukrainian-Canadians out here,” she shared.

Furminger says the gathering was to remind the world that the war is not over and that Ukraine is still fighting for its freedom.

Dr. Svlitlana Kominko from the Maple Hope Foundation says a rally like this one raises awareness.

“You don’t have a right to forget, right? Because you have to be united, you have to continue to support our defenders,” said Dr. Kominko.

A recurring name at the rally was U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been meeting with Russia in an attempt to broker a peace deal without Ukraine at the table.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will be in Kyiv on Monday, as one of 13 foreign leaders attending a summit on peace and security for Ukraine. Trudeau has said it’s crucial for Ukraine to be part of any peace talks.

Organizers of the rally will also be hosting a Freedom Salon at The Gallery George on Monday night, with the art show set to feature work from over 20 Ukrainian artists inspired by the ongoing war.

The University of British Columbia will also be holding a vigil at 2:30 p.m., in front of the bookstore, to mark the importance of the day.