Far from home, Ukrainians abroad mark 35 years of independence as war with Russia drags on

Ukrainians living abroad marked their 35th Independence Day on Monday, August 24, 2026, with a mix of celebration for their homeland and a somber acknowledgment of the ongoing war with Russia. For the approximately 70,000 displaced Ukrainians residing in Belgium under the EU's temporary protection scheme, the hope of returning home remains a powerful, albeit increasingly uncertain, aspiration.

Misha Dzivitskyi, president of the Ukrainian Voices Refugee Committee (UVRC) in Brussels, stated that the anniversary serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for sovereignty. "It’s a day where we understand that we stay in war," he said, emphasizing the resilience of Ukrainians despite the difficulties. The UVRC, established shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, continues to provide essential support, including housing, employment assistance, language courses, and psychological aid to displaced Ukrainians navigating life in Belgium.

The prolonged conflict presents challenges, particularly for families whose children are growing up in Belgium and attending local schools. While many families still wish to return to Ukraine, the persistent war and challenging conditions make this prospect increasingly precarious. Meanwhile, in Kyiv, Ukraine is hosting key European allies for talks aimed at securing further air-defense supplies and increasing pressure on Russia, a move prompted by recent escalations in Russian attacks, including missile strikes on the capital.

The European Union has consistently linked Ukraine's security with its own, underscoring the broader implications of the conflict. As the war drags on, the sustainability of European support is becoming a critical focus, especially amid heightened Russian military actions.

“

It’s a day where we understand that we stay in war. We continue to be strong. It’s difficult, but it’s a moment where we understand that we have independence.