A map of Ukraine was also placed near the monument in solidarity. The people addressed said that they had arrived because Ukraine's independence was currently threatened, some said they knew people in Ukraine personally.
“I came to this event today to support my husband and his family because my husband is from Ukraine. And for me, it was very important to show that I care what is going on. I think it is very important to support our partners because we can never know what will happen in Latvia,” said the event visitor Silva.
The 30-meter-long Ukrainian flag was also held by Ukraine's ambassador to Latvia.
"This is a symbolic place for Latvia and it is becoming a symbolic place for Ukraine, because we are fighting for our independence, for the sovereignty of Ukraine, for the territorial integrity of Latvia during the Soviet occupation. (…) I think Vladimir Putin reckoned the west would be weak against his attack. The readiness to support Ukraine shows that he is not right," said Ukraine's ambassador to Latvia Olexandr Mischenko.
“Ukraine Week” is taking place this week in Riga. On Monday, a Ukrainian flag was raised above the Riga City Council, but on Monday evening the council building lit up in the colors of a Ukrainian flag. On Sunday, lighting of candles in the backyard of the Ukrainian embassy is planned.
