On the occasion of Ukraine’s Independence Day, on 23 August a Gratitude March entitled “Ukraine and Estonia together”, organised by the Congress of Ukrainians of Estonia, took place in Tallinn.

The march started near the Ukrainian Cultural Centre and proceeded through the streets of Tallinn’s Old Town to Tammsaare Park, where a rally and concert were held.

The event brought together representatives of the Embassy of Ukraine in Estonia, member of the Riigikogu and the Estonia–Ukraine Parliamentary Friendship Group, Mati Raidma, as well as representatives of the Ukrainian community, including Ukrainians who have found temporary refuge in Estonia.

Vira Konyk, Head of the Congress of Ukrainians of Estonia, noted that the event was part of the global “Chain of Unity” campaign, as well as the “People Are Key!” performance campaign, aimed at drawing the international community’s attention to the need to secure the release of Ukrainian prisoners of war, unlawfully detained civilians and political prisoners, as well as the return of Ukrainian children deported by Russia.

A representative of the Embassy of Ukraine in Estonia congratulated the participants on the Day of the National Flag of Ukraine and the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence and expressed gratitude to Estonia for its unwavering support for our country - substantial military assistance, consistent political and diplomatic support, as well as its contribution to Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction.

Particular attention was drawn to the situation in Ukraine, where Russia continues its daily attacks on cities and villages. Russian missiles and drones destroy residential buildings, hospitals, schools and other civilian infrastructure, killing and injuring civilians, including children.

In this context, the Embassy representative called on those present to support the UNITED24 fundraising initiative to purchase ambulances for Ukrainian medical teams, supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine. Every contribution to this initiative helps Ukrainian medical professionals save lives.