The third anniversary of the devastating war in Ukraine was marked by an event full of emotion at Rye Town Hall on Monday, February 24.
There are currently 12 Ukrainian families living in Rye. Speaking in both Ukrainian and English, Nataliia Zlobina thanked people in the town. "We feel safe here and very welcome. Thank you for the jobs that allow us to support our families still living over there."
Whilst speaking she held up a Ukrainian flag signed by friends of her son who is fighting in Ukraine. She explained how many of the men who had written on the flag were dead. "I hope one day we will meet and celebrate an end to this bloody war."
Before the event, a solemn crowd of mainly Ukrainian families and those who support them in Rye stood outside the town hall listening to Paul Goring, Rye’s town crier, as he gave a most moving cry to show the continuing support for Ukraine from the people of Rye.
Watch highlights from the event, including Paul Goring's cry, in this video.
Anthony Kimber, who organised the event and has played a key role in assisting the Ukraine families in Rye in so many ways, said after the event: "Three years ago Russia started its full-scale and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine. Russia’s war targets civilian and critical infrastructure. The Ukrainian people have shown bravery in defending their country and the core principles of international law.
“Rye pays tribute to all those who have sacrificed their lives and have lost loved ones for Ukraine’s independence and freedom.
“The UK started its Homes for Ukraine scheme in March 2022. Around 25 families came initially to Rye and its surrounding villages and today around twelve families remain. A voluntary hub provides support to those who are here. Each month there are social events to bring the Ukrainians together.
Rye's support chimes with the PM's remarks to Ukraine today: "The UK is with you today and every day…We all hope for a peace agreement this year so that lives can return to the new normal."
The mayor, Andy Stuart, spoke to the Ukraine families present and was visibly moved by their plight. He reminded them that Rye, which means "paradise" in their country, would always be a safe haven for them.
Minister Rev Fiona Gill from the Baptist Church in Rye spoke movingly and called for a minute’s silence so that the families could all reflect on their loved ones. She ended with a prayer and a blessing. “May the Lord bless you and keep you, may the Lord make his face to shine on you and be gracious to you, may the Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace.”
The event was held three years to the day since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. The Russian president Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" in Ukraine, officially launching a full-scale invasion. This marked the beginning of the most significant conflict in Europe since the second world war.
Putin claimed Russia was acting in self-defence against NATO expansion and alleged threats to Russian-speaking populations in Ukraine.
The invasion, initially expected to be a quick Russian victory, has turned into a prolonged and devastating war. Ukraine mounted a strong resistance, and by late 2022, it launched counter-offensives, reclaiming large territories.
The war continues with significant casualties, destruction, and geopolitical consequences.
