Ukrainians living in London protesting the Russian invasion of their home country fear it’s all they can do

Protesters gathered in London to demonstrate against the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Friday

They largely called for more government action.

Though Yurii said that the UK has made a substantial effort to assist Ukraine, he said more manpower from Western countries would help their defense.

“At least to be million percent sure, because we are sure that Russia will not do much harm. But we need more protection. We need air protection,” said Yurii.

Yurii told Insider that his grandparents still live in Ukraine and that they have decided to stay in the country

His grandparents told him that they are scared, but over the phone, they’ve had one consistent message: “I’m happy that my grandkids, my kids, are actually out of the country. Youngsters are out. We are old, we are already 60s.”

 

 

 

A Ukrainian demonstrator told Insider that ‘Ukraine is strong if they work together.’

Anton, who moved to the UK 20 years ago, told Insider that he would have participated in fighting against Russian forces if he could. 

“It’s my duty, to protect my country,” he said. “And anything I need to do or they need to do to save, we will do it. Because we are Ukrainians.”

Yurii agreed, saying that defending the country was the right thing to do.

“If I was there, I will take my shotgun from my shelf in Ukraine and go. But I am here because my parents took me here six years ago,” said Yurii.

“I’m just true Ukrainian,” Anton added. “All of Ukraine is strong if they work together.”

Protestors planted signs urging leaders to cut off Russia on the fence outside of a UK government building, Whitehall.

On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized two separatist regions in eastern Ukraine and announced he would send troops to those regions.

‘No Putin, No War,’ one sign read.

Early on Thursday morning, Putin announced a “special military operation” in Ukraine in a televised speech that coincided with a special UN Security Council meeting. Shortly after the speech, the Russian attack began and explosions were heard in cities throughout the country.

After speaking with Insider, Yurii and Anton departed saying ‘Slava Ukraini!’ which can be translated to ‘Glory to Ukraine!