Support for Ukraine expressed at the Freedom Monument: Desired land will not become conquered land

Marking the fourth anniversary since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a support event for Ukraine, “Kopā līdz uzvarai!” took place at the Freedom Monument on the morning of February 24. As the sun rose, those present joined in a shared moment of solidarity to once again clearly affirm that Latvia’s support for Ukraine’s fight for freedom and independence is steadfast and unwavering.

The event served as a symbolic beginning to the day. With a moment of silence, music, and togetherness, it marked the start of a day of remembrance and unity. The chosen time was deliberate — sunrise recalls the early morning hour when Russia launched its invasion, while also embodying hope for Ukraine’s victory, a hope that has not faded even after four years of war. As darkness recedes, light becomes a shared message of resilience, freedom, and faith in a brighter future. This morning gathering stood as a quiet yet powerful affirmation of Latvia’s solidarity with Ukraine and its commitment to the values of freedom.

The event opened with a moment of silence in memory of those whose voices have been silenced forever, led by actress Guna Zariņa.

“Today we symbolically stand on Ukrainian soil. We are in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and elsewhere. Beneath our feet is Ukrainian land, torn apart by an aggressor who seeks to claim it. But know this — desired land will not become conquered land. Beneath our feet is Ukrainian soil in which wheat has been sown. Soon, a grain of wheat will sprout a strong shoot reaching toward the Sun. We believe this shoot will greet the Sun on free Ukrainian land. Earth, give strength to those who stand with the Sun, not destruction. Together until victory!” G. Zariņa said during the event.

Those gathered at the Freedom Monument assembled within a specially designated area, symbolically forming the outline of Ukraine’s state territory. Together with 28 choirs and ensembles, as well as other musicians, participants united in song to express support for Ukraine and its people. A live broadcast recording by Latvian Television News Service from the event is available here.

Photo: Gints Ivuškāns

The event was organized by Civic Alliance – Latvia and European Movement Latvia, with support from the Riga City Council, the State Chancellery of Latvia, Latvian Platform for Development Cooperation (LAPAS), DOTS Foundation for an Open Society, the European Commission Representation in Latvia, creative agency “Wrong,” design agency “Blank,” JCDecaux Latvia, and other organizations and institutions.

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