Ukraine’s European future is the best guarantee of its security—this was one of the key messages during the commemoration of the third anniversary of the beginning of Russia’s full-scale aggression against the country.
In Belgrade, the commemoration focused on the fate of Ukrainians during the war, the destruction of cultural monuments, and support for the people of Ukraine.
At Republic Square, representatives of the diplomatic corps and citizens gathered to send a collective message of support for peace and solidarity.
The Ambassador of Ukraine, Volodymyr Tolkach, stated that 24 February is a tragic date in the history of his country and that the brave resistance of his compatriots has now lasted for three years.
“Why are we fighting? What are we defending? We are defending our shared home, and we are grateful for the support of all of you, of all the countries in the world that share with us the same values of peaceful coexistence and humanity. The war against Ukraine is not just a challenge for one country,” said Ambassador Tolkach.
Following the gathering, participants proceeded to Europe House, where the exhibition “Postcards from Ukraine” was opened. The exhibition aims to show the world Ukraine’s historical and cultural monuments that have been destroyed by Russian troops as a result of bombing and shelling during the Russian Federation’s invasion of Ukraine since 24 February 2022.
Equally important are the drawings of Ukrainian children, many of whom are internally displaced persons. Young Ukrainians, who dream of living in a free and beautiful country without war, shelling, and violence, express their pain, hopes, and emotions through their artwork.
The EU Ambassador to Serbia, Emanuele Giaufret, stated that these images remind us of what is at stake in this war—the identity and history of a nation fighting for its survival.
“We are committed to ensuring that peace in Ukraine is just, comprehensive, and lasting. A peace that respects Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity and which is in line with the principles of international law and the UN Charter. The EU also supports a peace that provides strong security guarantees. We also know that Ukraine’s best security guarantee lies in its future in the EU. The EU has opened its doors, and Ukraine has been advancing in its EU accession despite the war. The Union remains committed to supporting Ukraine every step of the way, just as we support Serbia and others on their European path,” said Giaufret.
The opening of the exhibition was attended by the Serbian Minister for European Integration, Tanja Miščević, and the European Parliament’s Rapporteur for Serbia, Tonino Picula. The exhibition will be open to visitors until the end of the week.
At Europe House, the 2024 film “Intercepted” was also screened, featuring intercepted conversations between Russian soldiers and their families during the conflict in Ukraine.
