Londoners mark anniversary of Ukraine invasion

Londoners fill Trafalgar Square for a vigil to commemorate the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukrainian territory. British and Ukrainians alike heard from Dame Helen Mirren, Eurovision winner Jamala, as well as world leaders who all spoke of their support for those still living in Ukraine and are fighting to bring an end to the war with its neighbour.

Large crowds have gathered in Trafalgar Square for a vigil marking the anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Russia’s war in Ukraine began on February 24, 2022.

On the eve of the conflict’s anniversary, hundreds of people gathered in central London in solidarity with the invaded nation, at an event jointly coordinated by the US and Ukraine embassies.

A large screen was lit up with the phrase ‘slava Ukraini’ - ‘glory to Ukraine’ - a Ukrainian national salute that has become known as the battle cry of the fight-back against Moscow.

Videos showed crowds draped in Ukrainian flags, joining in as singer-songwriter Jamala Bird performed Ukrainian songs on-screen.

Ukrainian pop-rock band Antytila also performed via video link, accompanied by a live dance performance in Trafalgar Square.

Academy award-winning actress Dame Helen recited an English translation of Ukrainian poem Take Only What Is Most Important, by Serhiy Zhadan.

Putin had a plan that in three weeks he would have dominated Ukraine, sent people to filtration camps and eventually have turned that country into merely a pawn for his ambitions.