Kyiv’s Maidan, also known as Independence Square, has become a powerful symbol of remembrance for Ukraine’s fallen soldiers as the war in the country reaches its 1,000th day. With around 80,000 soldiers losing their lives since Russia’s invasion in 2022, families of the fallen have turned to planting small flags with names and dates to honor their loved ones. What started with a few flags has now turned into a sea of blue and yellow, fluttering in the wind and creating a poignant tribute to those who gave their lives for their country.
Among the flags, portraits of soldiers and fresh flowers can also be found, creating a solemn and poignant atmosphere at the square. Families and fellow soldiers visit the square daily to pay their respects, with new flags added almost every day. The square, once a site of political revolutions, has now become a makeshift memorial for those who have sacrificed their lives for Ukraine.
While the memorial continues to grow, life in the capital goes on as usual. Passersby stop to observe and pay their respects, but eventually, the city returns to its usual pace. However, the growing tribute at Independence Square serves as a constant reminder of the price Ukraine has paid for its freedom. Through their handmade memorial, the people of Ukraine ensure that their fallen soldiers are never forgotten, even in the absence of an official government memorial.
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Photo credit www.euronews.com
