Global protests erupted on February 24, 2024, commemorated as the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Demonstrations occurred across numerous cities worldwide, uniting voices against the war and honoring the victims affected by the conflict.
One of the largest gatherings took place in Berlin, where participants convened at the Memorial to the Burned Books on Bebelplatz. Here, they held a moment of silence for the war's victims and lit candles, creating a poignant scene. Notably, the event featured no speeches, emphasizing the somber nature of the occasion. Earlier, anarchist activists had staged their rally, marching through Unter den Linden to express demands for the cessation of Russian aggression.
According to reports from SOTAvision, the procession made its way past the Russian embassy and joined forces with Ukrainian protesters at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, highlighting the solidarity between various anti-war factions.
Meanwhile, Tbilisi also hosted significant demonstrations, beginning outside the Ukrainian embassy, where demonstrators waved flags representing Ukraine, Georgia, and the European Union. The protest then advanced toward the Georgian parliament, reflecting the interconnectedness of these nations amid the conflict.
Smaller gatherings also took place elsewhere, including several dozen protestors taking to the streets of Yerevan and echoing calls for peace.
Similar sentiments were felt in Rome, where the anti-war rally was named "Russi Contro La Guerra" or "Russians Against the War." Activists expressed their discontent over the military actions taken by Russia and called for peace and resolution.
Back home, Moscow saw flowers laid at the monument of Lesya Ukrainka, symbolizing mourning for the victims of the war. Instances of tension arose, such as when police detained a young woman wearing clothing adorned with the message "24.02.2022 February Lasting for Years." Her protest was met with backlash from onlookers, one of whom was outraged and began destroying the flowers, stating, "Boys are dying," according to Mena Zina. This incident highlighted the polarizing opinions surrounding the war even within the Russian populace.
Protesters also gathered at the monument to victims of political repressions in St. Petersburg, marking the day with remembrance and calls for accountability against the backdrop of war-related casualties.
The protests on February 24 exemplified the widespread resistance globally against the war, showcasing not just the efforts of Ukrainians to affirm international solidarity, but also the myriad of supporters eager to voice their dissent against the continuing hostilities. These events reaffirm the sentiment shared by many nations — the longing for peace and the urgency to end violence. With each year marking the invasion, the echoes of justice and calls for peace are becoming increasingly undeniable, reflecting the hopes and demands of millions around the world.
The global response to the anniversary of Russia's invasion mirrors the resilience and commitment of individuals to express their disapproval of tyranny and aggression. Each candle lit, each flag waved, and every flower laid down are not only acts of remembrance but also powerful reminders of the collective voice demanding change.