One year since the Russian invasion, local Ukrainians hold vigil
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) – Friday, February 24 marks one year since Russia invaded Ukraine. Here in Colorado Springs, some people with ties to Ukraine held a vigil Friday night to remember all of those who’ve lost their lives in their fight for freedom in Ukraine.
Event organizers said the goal of this vigil is to make sure people know the war is still waging on and to not let go of the support.
Vigil organizer Larysa Martyniuk said she has family throughout Ukraine and she's very grateful for the United State's generosity and support. But she hopes it continues.
"I have over 64 family members, cousins living in different areas of Ukraine," Martyniuk said. "Many of them have lost their homes and I've been trying to send funds to them as well as supporting various nonprofits. I have devoted most of my time this year to support the Ukrainian nation and people."
She also says the last year has been a nightmare and a constant battle.
"It is a war against the civilians," Martyniuk said. "It is not a war thats equitable I wake up in the morning anxious. I put on the news wanting to see what happens, I'm up in the night with the time change seeing what city has been hit."
One Ukrainian woman, Iryna Tsoma, said she left her home in East Ukraine exactly a year ago when the war broke out.
"We take our kids and leave from our house," said Tsoma.
Tsoma's family was one of the lucky ones who were able to flee the chaos and eventually move to the United States in December of 2022. Her family and her kids now live in Colorado Springs.
Now that it has been exactly a year since the war started, it has brought back tough memories for Tsoma.
"So many hours, sometimes many 12 hours, without light, without the warm," said Tsoma.
Tsoma hoping and praying for peace.
"I hope we have victory. I hope peace in my country," said Tsoma.
Below is a list of nonprofits to donate to help the Ukrainian people in need:
