By Richard James
On Sunday, February 23, 2025, Brighton and Hove stood united in solemn remembrance as the city marked the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The event, hosted by Stand for Ukraine Brighton and Hove, was an emotional gathering that brought together local leaders, Ukrainian nationals, and members of the wider community in a powerful show of solidarity.
Held at the historic Brighton Unitarian Church on New Road, the memorial service commenced at 4 p.m. with a deeply moving tribute led by key figures, including the Mayor of Brighton and Hove, Mohammed Asaduzzaman. The event provided a platform for heartfelt speeches, reflecting on the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the devastating toll of the ongoing conflict. Attendees observed an extended moment of silence, paying their respects to the lives lost in the war.
Music played a central role in the service, with stirring performances that underscored the gravity of the occasion. Ukrainian folk songs and classical compositions echoed through the church, leaving many attendees visibly moved.
Following the service, at 5:30 p.m., participants gathered at the Brighton War Memorial for an evocative candle-lighting ceremony near the Post-1945 Casualties Stone. The flickering candlelight served as a poignant reminder of the enduring suffering caused by the conflict, while also symbolizing hope for peace and justice.
Beyond remembrance, the event had a tangible impact, raising crucial funds to aid Ukrainian civilians affected by the war. Stand for Ukraine Brighton and Hove has been at the forefront of local humanitarian efforts, funding ambulances and minibuses for evacuating those stranded in frontline zones. Most recently, a fully equipped van was dispatched to Ukraine, demonstrating Brighton’s unwavering commitment to the cause.
This Brighton commemoration was part of a larger movement across East Sussex and beyond, as cities worldwide paid tribute to Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty. The overwhelming turnout and deeply personal tributes reinforced Brighton’s role as a steadfast supporter of Ukraine, with attendees expressing their hopes for an end to the war and a future built on peace and resilience.
As the evening drew to a close, the community departed with heavy hearts yet strengthened resolve, united in their determination to stand with Ukraine—today and always. Brighton’s tribute was not just an act of remembrance but a powerful statement of defiance against aggression and a call for continued support in Ukraine’s fight for freedom.
