This year again, for the fourth year in a row, Ukraine marks its Independence Day while fighting for its sovereignty in a war of aggression. As the toll of human suffering rises, it is increasingly important for us to show the people of Ukraine that, alongside the Finnish people’s other means of support, we are continuing to advocate for a sustainable peace in Ukraine and will defend Ukraine’s right to autonomy in any future peace negotiations. We are living through a pivotal historical era that will shape the future of all of Europe.
UNITED FOR UKRAINE programme
The event will start in Helsinki’s Senate Square at 15.00.
- The church bells in the Helsinki Cathedral ring for one minute in honour of Ukraine's independence
- Opening remarks by host Justas Stasevskij
- The Ukrainian National Anthem performed by an Ukrainian choir
- Welcome speech by Helsinki Mayor Daniel Sazonov
- Greetings from the Finnish Parliament, Speaker of the Finnish Parliament Jussi Halla-aho
- Speech by Prime Minister Petteri Orpo
- Speech by Minister of Education Anders Adlercreutz
- Remarks by Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen and Ambassador of Ukraine to the Republic of Finland, Mykhailo Vydoinyk
- Singer-songwriter Yona performs, singing Ukrainian songs translated into Finnish
The event will conclude with a joint rendition of Sibelius’ Finlandia hymn at 15.30.
As in previous years, we will fill Helsinki’s Senate Square with sunflowers, the Ukrainian national flower.
UNITED FOR UKRAINE is organised by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Helsinki, the Ukrainian Association in Finland, and Mothersforpeace, in cooperation with the City of Helsinki, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of Finland.
