Mariupol's Final Day of Peace: The City on February 23, 2022
February 23, 2022, was the last day of peace for Mariupol before Russia launched its full-scale invasion. The city's fate was a grim foreshadowing of the wider war to come. On the eve of that tragic date, a rally under the slogan 'Mariupol is Ukraine' took place on Theatre Square, where participants voiced strong support for Ukrainian independence with chants such as:
- Glory to Ukraine!
- Ukraine above all!
- Glory to the nation!
A notable moment was the appearance of Andriy Khlyvnyuk, frontman of the popular band 'Boombox'. His participation highlighted the role of cultural figures during political and military crises. It is significant that on February 22, 2022, 'Boombox' had performed at the Mariupol Drama Theatre, which turned out to be the final concert held in that building. Khlyvnyuk remarked:
“That was the last concert to take place in the theatre. But we will definitely perform a concert in a rebuilt Mariupol theatre. The struggle continues.” - Andriy Khlyvnyuk
Today, Mariupol remains an occupied city, a stark symbol of Russia's aggression against Ukraine. The official occupation has lasted since May 21, 2022. As the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion approaches, the Council of Europe plans to mark the occasion. A special meeting of ambassadors is scheduled for February 24 to address the consequences of Russian aggression, followed by an official commemoration ceremony on February 25 in front of the Palace of Europe. Speakers will include:
- Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berse
- Permanent Representative of Moldova, Daniela Cujbă
- Permanent Representative of Ukraine, Mykola Tochytskyi
The ceremony will feature performances of the Ukrainian national anthem and the European anthem.
Remembering Mariupol as a symbol of Ukraine's fight for independence is crucial in the context of the ongoing war. Marking four years since the invasion's start underscores the importance of sustained international support for Ukraine and recognition of its territorial integrity. These events help forge a collective memory that can serve as a foundation for the country's future post-war recovery.