'We have hope': Sask. marks 2 years since invasion of Ukraine with candle lighting and flag raising
On Friday at the legislative building, people gathered in recognition of the anniversary of the war in Ukraine. The event featured a ceremonial candle lighting and speakers.
Two years ago on Feb. 24, Russia launched a full-scale attack on Ukraine, which changed the lives of many forever, one of those lives being that of Olha Kolos.
“I wish Ukrainians to live in peace, because we are really peaceful people, we like to work, we like to work with the ground with our gardens. We don’t want the war, nobody wants,” she said.
Kolos arrived in Saskatchewan in June of 2022 with her family after her fears for the safety of her three children grew too big to ignore.
She spoke about her experience at an event marking the anniversary in the legislative building.
“At their tender age, my children know what fighter jets and explosions sound like, how to sleep with their clothes on the floor and sit in the bomb shelter. We made a hard decision to take them as far from the war as we can, to Canada,” Kolos said in her speech.
Since the invasion, the province has sent five planes to bring Ukrainians seeking refuge to Saskatchewan.
“Our responsibility right from day one has been to welcome Ukrainians. We have over 130,000 people of Ukrainian descent in Saskatchewan, which is about 13 per cent of our province,” explained Terry Dennis, MLA for Canora-Pelly and secretary for Ukrainian relations.
“They came here years ago and helped build the province so I think it’s only fitting that we welcome them and help them start a new life here.”
With such a large Ukrainian population in the province, this is a matter that hits very close to home for many.
“It’s emotional, it’s difficult, but we have hope, our people are resilient, hard working, tenacious and are looking forward to that victory for Ukraine,” said Elena Krueger, president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress of Saskatchewan.
As for Kolos, it has been an emotional time but she continues to have hope.
“I want to continue to ask you to support us. I want to ask you to stand with Ukraine until our victory. For the name of justice and peace,” she said.
About 100 people gathered in front of Regina City Hall to mark the second anniversary of the war in Ukraine. (Gareth Dillistone / CTV News)
Meanwhile, more than 100 people gathered at Regina city hall to mark the somber anniversary.
Ukrainian Orthodox priests said prayers and everyone sang the Canadian national anthem. Speakers recognized the bravery and sacrifice of those fighting to defeat the Russians.
There were many children in the crowd, who may return to live in Ukraine once the war is over.
Regina Mayor Sandra Masters spoke to those who gathered and helped to raise a flag in front of city hall.
- With files from Gareth Dillistone
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
![](https://www.ctvnews.ca/polopoly_fs/1.6971466.1721473775!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_800/image.jpg)
investigation Prominent Vancouver lawyer accused of moving criminal cash dies before hearing
Vancouver lawyer Michael Bolton likely defended thousands of people over 50 years of practice. But in the end, he would not get a chance to defend himself.
Quebec woman's death warns of dangers of cosmetic surgery abroad
Brian McConnell's daughter, Florence McConnell, died after a liposuction surgery complication in Morocco. Now, he warns others against undergoing cosmetic surgeries abroad.
How B.C.'s firefighting smokejumpers take 'ultra-extreme and make it seem mundane'
Standing on the edge of an open aircraft hatch, a smokejumper in a pale yellow suit steadies himself before rocking back then swinging out the door and vanishing as gravity takes over.
Steam cleaners, kids' helmets, multivitamins: Here are the recalls of the week
Health Canada issued recalls for various items this week, including steam cleaners, hedgehog pet food, kids' bike helmets and multivitamins.
Here are the signs you're ready to downsize your home
Amid the cost-of-living crisis, many Canadians are looking to find ways to save money, such as downsizing their home. But one Ottawa broker says there are several signs to consider before making the big decision.
Israeli military says it has struck several Houthi targets in Yemen in response to attacks
The Israeli army says it has struck several Houthi targets in western Yemen on Saturday following a fatal drone attack by the rebel group in Tel Aviv the previous day.
'Didn't bother nobody:' U.S. postal worker killed while delivering mail
A mail carrier was fatally shot while walking a route in Chicago, authorities said. Investigators at the U.S. Postal Service are offering up to US$250,000 for tips that solve the case.
BREAKING LCBO confirms strike over, stores to reopen Tuesday
The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) and the union representing 10,000 of its workers reached a tentative agreement Saturday, clearing the way for stores to open Tuesday.
Polar bear 'Baffin' dies at Calgary Zoo after not resurfacing from pool
A polar bear died in its enclosure at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo on Friday.