February 25, 2023 at 9:42 am

PHOTOS: Ukrainian Community Gathers In The Square To Mark First Anniversary Of Russian Invasion

A view of the crowd in the Square for the vigil on Friday. Photo courtesy of John Kiernan

A POIGNANT, emotional but defiant event took place in The Square on Friday evening to mark the first anniversary of the war in Ukraine.

Hundreds of members of the Ukrainian community in Tralee joined locals in a vigil to remember loved ones still in their home country and those who have lost their lives in the war.

Organised by the Ukrainian community in Tralee, it was also an opportunity to thank the people of Kerry who have welcomed them over the past year since the Russian invasion.

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One of the organisers Oksana Tabalyuk was happy with the turnout and that it was important to hold the event.

“We wanted to show there is still a war in Ukraine and it’s a very difficult time for us. We also wanted to thank the Irish people who have supported us. We feel safe here which is very important,” she said.

Olena speaking at the vigil in The Square on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean

There were plenty flags and banners on show decrying the war while speeches in Ukrainian with an English translation were made by young speakers.

One speaker, Olena, said the Ukrainian people had endless gratitude to the people of Ireland, Kerry and the Government for opening their hearts to them.

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“Ireland was one of the first countries to open to doors for us. We were lost. We were stressed. Our lives had been broken. Thank you for giving us the shelter. Thank you for giving us hope. Thank you for helping to put our lives together. We will never forget your kindness,” she said.

Mayor of Tralee, Cllr Mikey Sheehy, also spoke and said since the war started individuals and organisations in Kerry have responded, including Kerry County Council and the Tralee International Resource Centre.

Mayor of Tralee Mikey Sheehy with members of the Ukrainian community in Tralee attending the vigil in The Square on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean

He also thanked those in the town who offered rooms to families fleeing the invasion which was vital in the Irish response.

“As I look around the crowd here, I can see people who I now count as friends. Friends who have had to stop their lives in an instant to flee. As a father I find this hard to comprehend,” he said.

“However, as a community, you should be very proud of yourselves over the last 12 months. You’ve made yourselves a part of the community here.”

“To deal with such a catastrophic event is unimaginable and when I spoke with some of you earlier, the common theme is that of those still in Ukraine — those sheltering and those fighting for your country. Loved ones, family, friends and acquaintances, they are all in our thoughts this evening.”

The Ukrainian and Irish national anthems were both played along with other patriotic Ukrainian songs, while flowers and candles were also placed to mark the sad occasion. Scroll down for photos…