Translated with AI
On February 24, commemorative events were held at the European Union Embassy in Dushanbe to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the twelfth anniversary of Russia's aggression and occupation of Crimea. On this day, diplomats, representatives of the Ukrainian community, international partners, and representatives of foreign missions accredited in Tajikistan gathered to honor the memory of the victims of the war, express solidarity with the people of Ukraine, and emphasize the importance of international support in their struggle for freedom, independence, and territorial integrity.
The event was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Republic of Tajikistan, including the ambassadors of the European Union, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, as well as the heads of diplomatic missions of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Turkey. Among the guests were representatives of international organizations and accredited diplomats, including the OSCE Representative in Tajikistan. Ceremony participants laid flowers and observed a moment of silence in memory of the victims.
Valeriy Yevdokimov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Tajikistan, delivered a welcoming speech. In his address, he recalled the tragic events of February 24, 2022, and emphasized that the war was a continuation of years of aggression against Ukraine.
"Four years ago, after eight years of hybrid aggression, Russia launched an open war against the people of Ukraine, with the goal of destroying not only Ukrainian statehood but also its identity. The morning of February 24, 2022, began with explosions, the whistle of rockets outside the window, and alarming news: the Russian Federation army had crossed Ukraine's state border. The first explosions of Russian missiles, the first deaths of Ukrainian defenders who had not fled or gone home, as Putin demanded in his morning address, but had instead taken the brunt of the aggressor's regular troops," the ambassador noted.
He emphasized that during the war years, the Ukrainian people faced severe trials, but did not lose their desire for freedom and independence.
"Today, our families, friends, and neighbors are truly forced to survive without electricity, heat, or even water. And this winter has been unusually cold in Ukraine. But instead of capitulating, the people of Ukraine are only growing stronger in their determination to defeat their eternal enemy in a more than 500-year struggle for the right to live on their own territory and call themselves Ukrainians. Our invincibility rests on your support. Ukraine has already paid and continues to pay a huge price," the diplomat stated.
Concluding his speech, the ambassador expressed hope for a speedy end to the war and the restoration of a just peace.
"I sincerely hope that we can quickly stop this barbaric, bloody war, which has no place in the 21st century. Thank you for being with us, thank you for your support! Glory to Ukraine and its partners!" emphasized Valeriy Evdokimov.
Ambassadors from other countries also spoke during the ceremony, expressing their support and solidarity with the Ukrainian people in their struggle for freedom and independence. The diplomats noted that four years ago, Russia had hoped to seize Ukraine in the shortest possible time, but the Ukrainian people were able to decisively repel the aggressor.
"Russia launched a full-scale invasion, expecting quick success, but was met with the courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people. We strongly condemn this aggression and continue to support Ukraine," one of the speeches read.
Another speaker emphasized that the international community must remain united and consistent in its support for Ukraine. "We discuss what is happening with deep concern and reaffirm our commitment to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of states. Supporting Ukraine means supporting international law," the diplomat noted.
Each speaker expressed words of support and solidarity with the Ukrainian people in their struggle for freedom and independence, and condemned Russia's war against Ukraine, emphasizing the need to achieve a just and lasting peace based on international law.
The commemorative events in Dushanbe once again demonstrated the international community's continued support for Ukraine. Diplomats expressed confidence that joint efforts will help the Ukrainian people defend their territorial integrity, restore peace, and secure a future as a sovereign and independent state.
