Many people gathered at Sergels torg in Stockholm to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard emphasized that Ukraine's cause remains Sweden's and that support comes from all parts of society. Other speakers, including Magdalena Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, expressed grief, anger, and determination.
On Tuesday evening, people of all ages braved the cold and gathered at Sergels torg, illuminated by blue and yellow lights, to commemorate the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine that began on February 24, 2022.
Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard (M) addressed the crowd and said: “After four years, Ukraine's cause is still ours; it concerns our future.” She added: “It is Ukraine that is strong and Russia that is weak. Putin wanted a Russian Ukraine, but he got a European Ukraine.” Malmer Stenergard described Swedish support as “special” and noted: “It comes from all of society. From the people's hearts. From companies, associations, and individuals, like those here today.”
Social Democrats leader Magdalena Andersson expressed: “We gather in grief and anger over all the destruction and death that has followed in the wake of Russia's illegal and brutal invasion of a peaceful neighboring country.” She highlighted strong determination: “Determination to stand strong and united behind Ukraine, to stand up for what is right and proper.”
ABBA's Björn Ulvaeus also spoke, saying: “This ultimately concerns what kind of Europe we want to live in. When we support Ukraine, we support not just a country, but the idea of human dignity.” He framed the support as self-defense: “It is an investment in our own future. When Ukraine wins, Europe and freedom win. And that victory is worth everything.”
One attendee, Nataliia Usenko who fled the war two years ago, wore a Ukrainian flag and commented: “I remember the first day, and it's hard to comprehend that so much time has passed. It's of course important to come here on the fourth anniversary, but I believe support must exist every day, not just today.”
