On 21 October in Paris, Ukrainians, together with French activists, held a rally in support of Ukraine and European solidarity. Dozens of participants took to the streets of the French capital carrying Ukrainian flags, highlighting the need to remain united in the face of the threats posed by Russian aggression. The organisers emphasised that Ukraine’s experience of full-scale war demonstrates the consequences of a breakdown in security and the importance of joint action by European states. The rally took place against the backdrop of large-scale protests in France triggered by social and economic problems.
- On 21 October, a rally was held in Paris by Ukrainians and French people in support of Ukraine.
- The participants took to the streets carrying Ukrainian flags.
- The organisers called on European countries to remain united in the face of security threats.
- The main message of the campaign was the need for solidarity and a united front against Russian aggression.
- The event took place against the backdrop of large-scale social protests in France.
Ukrainians in Paris reminded Europe of the price of unity
The demonstrators marched through the streets of the French capital, unfurling large blue and yellow flags. The Ukrainian community was joined by local residents who support Ukraine in its stand against Russian aggression.
The photographs released show participants in the march carrying Ukrainian and European symbols. The event was peaceful in nature and was dedicated to solidarity between Ukraine and the EU countries.
In their statement, the organisers pointed out that Ukrainian society is suffering the consequences of a full-scale war, including civilian casualties, the destruction of towns and cities, and the forced displacement of millions of people.
They emphasised that this experience shapes Ukrainians’ particular attitude towards issues of security and European unity.
According to the organisers of the campaign, support for Ukraine today forms part of a broader effort to maintain stability and security on the European continent.
The organisers warned of threats to European democracies
The participants paid particular attention to Russia’s attempts to influence political and social processes in European countries.
The organisers stated that the Kremlin is seeking to exploit internal divisions within European societies in order to weaken their ability to respond collectively to external threats.
They called on Europeans not to lose their sense of solidarity and to continue supporting Ukraine.
Activists also highlighted the fact that the consequences of the war extend far beyond Ukraine’s borders. They have an impact on energy security, defence policy and international stability.
According to the organisers, cooperation between European states remains a key factor in tackling such challenges.
The demonstration took place against the backdrop of large-scale protests in France
The march in support of Ukraine took place at a time of growing social tension in France.
Over the last few days, there have been events in Paris and other cities demonstrations due to the rising cost of living, high fuel prices and problems with the funding of public services.
Some of the protests were accompanied by clashes with the police. The French authorities have stepped up security measures and imposed restrictions on certain demonstrations.
At the same time, the Ukrainian protest had a different aim. Its participants did not put forward any socio-economic demands to the French government, but focused on issues of international solidarity and support for Ukraine.
According to the organisers, the event is intended to serve as a reminder that internal disagreements should not distract attention from shared security challenges.
The Ukrainian community continues to organise events in France
Ukrainian civil society organisations regularly hold marches, rallies and awareness-raising events in Paris focusing on the Russian-Ukrainian war.
In particular, in September and October, demonstrations were held in the French capital in support of Ukrainian prisoners of war, those missing in action and civilians being held by Russia.
The families of military personnel, representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora and French human rights activists take part in such events.
During previous protests, participants called for increased international pressure on Russia, for the whereabouts of missing Ukrainians to be established, and for humanitarian organisations to be granted access to prisoners of war.
