Two years after the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the fighting rages on, resulting in loss of life, displaced families and cities and towns left decimated.
North Bay has opened its doors to more than two dozen Ukrainian families since the start of the war.
On Saturday, the second anniversary of the invasion, many of the newcomers, together with friends gathered at Northgate Shopping Centre to remind people that their homeland is in desperate need of support.
Together they sang a heartfelt rendition of the Ukrainian national anthem, later inviting people to join hands with them in a show of support.
Andrii Bieliaiev, arrived in North Bay in August of 2022.
He had this to say about the second anniversary of the conflict.
“We hope that this will be the last anniversary, and we ask everybody to help Ukraine stay strong against a powerful enemy. We ask everybody for more weapons, more financial and social support for Ukraine and for Ukrainian people too,” said Bieliaiev.
”I am from Mariupol. They damaged our city totally, not just a little bit. All houses are totally damaged.”
Not a day goes by that those lucky enough to safely flee the carnage, don’t think about the loved ones and friends they left behind, and what they are hearing from them is terrifying.
“The situation is really bad,” shared Bieliaiev.
“All of this for Ukrainians now is like a habit, because every day you could die, and you need to be prepared for this. This is bad.”
Watching from the sidelines was newcomer Olena and her eight-year-old daughter.
Originally from Kiev, they recently arrived in Toronto where they spent a few days before moving to North Bay where they have been staying for less than one week.
Using a translation app, Cathy Ranger who has opened up her home to the mother and daughter, describes the young mother’s situation.
“I don’t believe he is physically fighting in the war, but her husband is not allowed to leave the country, and he wanted them to be safe, so that is why he sent them to Canada. And when it is safe for them to return, they will go home again.”
When that will be is anyone’s guess as Russia continues to mount its full-scale invasion of their homeland.
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has signed a new security pact for Ukraine.
Trudeau joined other world leaders in Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, there to show their solidarity with Ukraine.
