On 24 February 2026, London once again “spoke” in support of Ukraine. Thousands gathered in Trafalgar Square to mark four years of resistance to Russia’s full-scale invasion. The central square of the British capital was transformed into a space of remembrance and solidarity: blue-and-yellow flags, candles, and the glow of phone torches held by participants.
The Voices of Ukraine rally was dedicated not only to honouring the victims of the war, but also to reminding the world that the struggle continues and that support for Ukraine remains essential.
“When the world grows tired or falls silent, the aggressor gains space for new crimes,” the organisers emphasised.
The event formed part of international commemorations taking place across the globe that day. The rally brought together the Ukrainian community, Britons, and partners from other countries. Among those present were ambassadors from 15 states and Members of the UK Parliament. They reaffirmed that support for Ukraine in security, defence, and reconstruction will remain steadfast.
Ukraine’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, also addressed the crowd. In his speech, he stressed:
“This is a date we did not choose, yet we remember it as the moment when all of us became different. We accepted the challenge and chose to fight in order to be free. As long as we fight, we will live.”
The crowd responded with applause.
Nearby stood families with children, volunteers, students, and soldiers on leave. Many held portraits of the fallen, a reminder of the price of freedom. This sense of remembrance was also present in the evening’s artistic segment.
Ruslana Lyzhychko performed on stage. The square joined in her songs, while thousands of lights illuminated the space in front of the National Gallery.
The event also featured the renowned German opera singer Frederike Krum, who performed a piece dedicated to February 24.
Testimonies from soldiers and civilians, as well as letters from the front line, were read aloud from the stage. British and Ukrainian actors gave the words a living voice and emotional force. The square listened in silence — and each story became a shared memory.
Author: Karina Volovidnyk
Photos: Karina Volovidnyk, Dmytro Malenko.
Ukrainian-language Editor: Anastasiia Zanuzdanova
English-language Editor: Helen Lewis
