Ukrainians Gather Outside Kelowna City Hall to Mark 3rd Anniversary of Russia’s Invasion
Ukrainians gathered outside Kelowna City Hall on Monday, just as they did three years ago.
Maksym Maksvchuk, 17, recalled the day he was in military training when Russia launched a full-scale attack against Ukraine in Feb. 2022.
"We were hiding in a big basement and we heard the rockets come through, maybe next in the next streets over," said Maksvchuk.
Since then, he, just like the more than 8 million other Ukrainians, have fled their home.
Video: Kelowna woman shares story of fleeing Ukraine on anniversary of war
When you hear that they see their house is no longer there, people lose everything, they completely start their life here. They’re so happy to have their kids, said Kelowna Stand with Ukraine vice-president, Denys Storozhuk.
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Last week, U.S. President Donald Trump met with Russian leaders, shutting out Ukraine.
The meeting came as Trump falsely blamed Ukraine for starting the war.
"Today I heard, ‘Oh we weren’t invited,’ well you’ve been there for three years, you should’ve ended it, you should’ve never started it, you should’ve made a deal," said Trump.
Video: Ottawa pays tribute to Ukraine on 3rd anniversary of Russia’s invasion
In the meantime, on Monday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau doubled down on Canadian support, pledging $5 billion in aid to Ukraine.
"We must do everything in our power to enable Ukraine to secure a just and lasting peace, a peace that cannot be achieved without Ukraininans at the table," said Trudeau.
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Back in Kelowna, refugees worry as a looming visa renewal deadline threatens to send many back to Ukraine.
In a statement, The Ministry of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada said, "The IRCC is aware of the difficulty and delays Ukrainian clients are experiencing with regards to renewing their passports, questions on these delays can be directed to the Ukrainian consulate."
But the delays put Maksvchuk at risk of being sent back to Ukraine, which means fighting close to the front lines.
"I will be with my father, so one good thing about that," he said.
Conclusion
The war in Ukraine has had a profound impact on the lives of millions of people, both in Ukraine and around the world. As the conflict continues to unfold, it is crucial that we continue to support the people of Ukraine and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current situation in Ukraine?
A: The situation in Ukraine remains volatile, with ongoing conflict and displacement.
Q: What is being done to support Ukraine?
A: Canada has pledged $5 billion in aid to Ukraine and has been working with international partners to support the country’s efforts to secure a just and lasting peace.
Q: What is the current situation with visa renewals for Ukrainian refugees?
A: There are delays in the process, and refugees are being advised to contact the Ukrainian consulate for further information.
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