On Sunday, Toronto’s Ukrainian community gathered to mark a significant and painful milestone—1,000 days of war with Russia. This solemn event was attended by The Honourable Arif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada; Yvan Baker, Member of Parliament for Etobicoke Centre; and Oleh Nikolenko, Consul General of Ukraine in Toronto. Markian Shwec, Chair of #StandWithUkraine committee at UCC-Toronto, also participated in the event. Together, they lit 1,000 candles, each representing one day of Ukraine’s ongoing battle for survival, freedom, and justice.
The Human Cost
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion began, Ukraine has faced unimaginable pain, resilience, and bravery. 1,000 days of suffering, yet also 1,000 days of determination to hold onto the values of freedom and justice. Thousands of lives have been lost, families have been torn apart, and homes destroyed. The numbers are shocking and heartbreaking:
• 591 children have been killed.
• Over 12,000 civilians have lost their lives.
• More than 5,700 schools and hospitals have been destroyed.
• Over 250,000 homes have been ruined.
Each number represents not just a statistic, but a life—a child, a parent, a loved one, a family torn apart by the violence of war. This is not just an attack on Ukraine; it is an attack on humanity itself. Yet, through all this pain, Ukrainians continue to stand strong. They are fighting not just for their land, but for their right to live freely, without fear of oppression or cruelty. Every community freed from Russian control uncovers mass graves and signs of unimaginable suffering.
Why Surrender Is Not An Option
The ongoing war in Ukraine has brought unimaginable pain and suffering, yet Ukraine refuses to surrender. For Ukrainians, surrender is not an option. Some might say that peace can be achieved by giving up land to Russia, but history has shown that such compromises only pave the way for more violence and instability.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, in his speech at the UN Security Council, stated: “Let’s realize the price we have already paid for this war. A war that no one wanted except Russia. Let’s realize the price we will have to pay for appeasement. Let’s take real action for real peace. Peace through strength.” These words resonate as a powerful reminder of the stakes involved and the consequences of inaction.
A History of Broken Promises
Russia has repeatedly breached agreements, showing a history of dishonesty and betrayal. As Ukraine’s Foreign Minister reminds us, “Russia has always broken its agreements with those who ceased to be dangerous to it.” This fact, echoed by the famous words of German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, “There is no point in making agreements with Russia,” has been proven time and time again throughout history. Russia’s willingness to violate treaties and agreements highlights its unreliability and aggressive ambitions. The world must recognize this and act accordingly to stop further suffering.
Time and again, Russia has shown a pattern of dishonesty and betrayal. In 2014, Russia illegally annexed Crimea and seized parts of Donetsk and Luhansk, and when Ukraine agreed to peace negotiations, Russia broke them and escalated its aggression. If Ukraine were to give up now, it would only send a message that aggression and violence can conquer freedom.
The True Cost of Surrender
If Ukraine were to give up now, the implications would extend far beyond its borders. Surrender would send a dangerous message to the world—that aggression and violence can crush freedom and sovereignty. It would undermine international law and embolden other authoritarian regimes to pursue their ambitions through force.
This fight is not merely about territory. It is about the fundamental right to live without fear or oppression. Ukrainians are defending their homes, their families, and the universal values of justice and freedom that the world holds sacred.
The Unbreakable Spirit of Ukraine
Despite the ongoing suffering, Ukrainians continue to show the world what true resilience looks like. Soldiers, doctors, volunteers, and families have displayed unmatched bravery in the face of overwhelming challenges. For more than 1,000 days, Ukrainians have fought for their right to live in peace and freedom. They are not just fighting for themselves; they are fighting for the future—for a future where peace, democracy, and justice will prevail.
A Global Responsibility
The war in Ukraine is not just Ukraine’s fight. It is the world’s fight. If Ukraine falls, it will be a victory for aggression, violence, and authoritarianism. Supporting Ukraine is a stand for human dignity, freedom, and the rule of law. When we support Ukraine, we are not just helping one country; we are standing up for the values that bind all of humanity together.
Looking Forward: A Hope for Peace and Freedom
As Ukraine marks 1,000 days of war, it is not giving up hope. The people of Ukraine continue to look toward the future, toward a day when peace and freedom are restored. The fight is far from over, but the resilience of the Ukrainian people proves that Ukraine will survive. Ukraine will win.
Now is the time for action. Now is the time to stand with Ukraine, to speak out, and to offer support. By doing so, we can help ensure that Ukraine’s fight for freedom, justice, and peace will not be in vain. The world’s solidarity with Ukraine is crucial in this moment of crisis. Every voice, every effort, and every act of support can make a difference. Together, we can help Ukraine rebuild, recover, and emerge stronger. Let us remain united in the fight for a world where freedom and human dignity prevail over tyranny and violence.
Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heroes!
