COMMEMORATION WITH UKRAINIAN AND TURKISH FLAGS ON THE 4TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE WAR
The Marmaris Ukrainian Association organized a commemoration ceremony at Atatürk Square in Marmaris on the 4th anniversary of the war that began when Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022 — a war that continues to this day.
During the ceremony, held under the shadow of the Atatürk monument, Ukrainian and Turkish flags were displayed side by side. Following a moment of silence and the reading of the Ukrainian National Anthem, Marmaris Ukrainian Association President Zhanna Ersoy thanked Türkiye for its humanitarian support and stated in her speech: “Today, on the fourth year of Ukraine’s honorable resistance against the full-scale invasion attempt, we have gathered here to commemorate our heroes defending their homeland and to show that we stand shoulder to shoulder with the Ukrainian people.
Today in Ukraine, a struggle for survival is taking place not only on the front lines, but in every kitchen and every child’s room. As a result of Russia’s systematic attacks, thousands of energy stations have been destroyed. Millions of civilians are being forced into submission by being left without electricity, water, or heating for days in freezing cold conditions. This is not just a war; it is an attempt to break a nation’s joy of life and its will to survive. But we will not surrender to the darkness.
In these difficult days, we sincerely thank the Republic of Türkiye for opening its doors to war-affected Ukrainians and for standing by us with humanitarian and strategic support. Türkiye’s support continues to be a light of hope for us during these dark times.
Although it is difficult to predict when and how the war will end, one thing we know is this: a just peace is only possible with justice. We hope that this process, which began in 2014, will conclude with the protection of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and a return to the 1991 borders — with a lasting peace where children are no longer afraid of bombs.
We call out to the world: Do not remain mere ‘spectators’ to this tragedy. Standing with us means defending not only Ukraine, but also human dignity and global peace. Taking a clear stance against war is the strongest shield against new disasters. Truth is on our side. We thank everyone who stands with us and extends a helping hand. Let us unite and support one another, because only together can we dispel this darkness. Glory to Ukraine! Salute to the heroes! Four years of full-scale war, 12 years of military occupation, and 100 years of uninterrupted struggle!” Reported Ata SEVGİ AjansCANKA
