Hundreds of people in Southampton gathered in sombre solidarity to mark the second anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Demonstrators silently stood on Above Bar Street, many draped in Ukrainian flags while others held emotive signs.
Two long lines of people – including Ukrainians and supporters alike – were formed outside the shops this evening.
According to the UN, at least 10,582 civilians have died in Ukraine since Russia's invasion began in February 2022.
But for many Ukrainians in Southampton, there is no end yet in sight.
Mother and son Anna Shtokalova and Matty Shtokalov, 10, fled their home country shortly after the war broke out.
For Anna, it’s important both she and her son walk the streets of Southampton to mark the occasion.
She said: “I want to promise my child a safe place to live to live a normal life, and to have normal mental and physical health.
“To see what is happening in my home county is awful.
“It’s important for people to remember that the war is not finished and we are still fighting for our peace and most of us want to go back home.
“But I have made many friends here since we arrived in July 2022. I had no idea where I was going, but now Matty goes to school and I have a job.”
Oksana Vakaliak has lived in Southampton for nearly two years.
She is very fond of the city and England as a whole, but it ‘is not home’.
“The people here are very good people and are a good help, so thank you so much, but I miss Ukraine.
“It’s good an event like this was held.”
Several handmade signs were held aloft during the rally, with many shining a light on the horrifying statistics of the war.
One sign read: “528 children died during the two-year war in Ukraine.”
Another said: “Our schoolchildren study in shelters.”
In a poignant touch, many demonstrators held lanterns in the colours of the Ukraine flag, illuminating the high street in blue and yellow.
Olena Gorbenko attended the event with her son, Live.
Speaking on the rally, she said: “We are here to remind people to support Ukraine.
“It’s for the safety of global security. War is unfortunately continuing.”
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