Ukrainian Community of Arizona Gathers for the fourth Anniversary of the Invasion
Katrina Schaffner engages the rally participants with themed chants and call-and-response. Tempe, Arizona. Photos by Fritz Rumpf.
On Sunday, February 22, our Arizona community gathered at the Arizona State University Pedestrian Bridge for “2014–2026: Undefeated,” a peaceful rally marking the fourth year of Ukraine’s resistance and resilience during the full-scale invasion. The event was collaboratively organized by the Ukrainian Arizona Foundation, UNWLA Branch #3, UCCA Phoenix Branch, St. Mary’s Church and Cactus and Tryzub.
Attendees made their way to the bridge, raising blue and yellow flags and filling the walkway with visible solidarity. The program formally began with the American national anthem, followed by the national anthem of Ukraine — a powerful reminder of the shared values of freedom and self-determination that unite both nations. The crowd then observed a moment of silence, honoring those who have lost their lives defending Ukraine, as well as the thousands of civilian casualties and innocent lives lost.
Sveno Olson, a U.S. veteran and former representative of the U.S. State Department in Kyiv, Ukraine, opened the rally with a welcome address. Mr. Olson underscored the significance of the anniversary and the responsibility of the international community not to lose focus. His remarks set the tone for the afternoon: resolute, clear-eyed, and forward-looking.
The centerpiece of the event followed — the “Ukraine Undefeated” loudspeaker chain. For nearly twenty minutes, participants recited staggering numbers of missile and drone attacks, along with acts of violence against civilians in the regions of Ukraine that sustained the greatest losses. As the loudspeaker passed from voice to voice, the weight of the sobering statistics settled over the crowd. Each link in the chain concluded with words such as “undefeated” and “unbroken,” reinforcing the theme that despite years of war, Ukraine remains steadfast and resolute in resisting aggression. The call echoed across the bridge: Ukraine is undefeated.
Following the loudspeaker chain, organizers invited the crowd to participate in chants and call-and-response moments. These moments transformed presence into participation. A powerful statement on Ukraine’s abducted children was also read, reminding attendees that accountability and justice remain urgent priorities. The rally concluded at 1:10 p.m. with a call to action and closing remarks from Irene, urging continued advocacy, sustained humanitarian and security support, and consistent public engagement. The message was clear: solidarity must translate into action.
“The rallies in Washington and Tempe remind us that standing with Ukraine isn’t a policy decision - it’s a human one. When communities coast to coast come together to say “we remember “, the message reaches further than any headline.”
From beginning to end, the afternoon demonstrated that support for Ukraine in Arizona remains strong, organized, and determined. Families, students, veterans, faith leaders, and community members stood together — honoring sacrifice, amplifying truth, and reinforcing that global attention cannot waver.
Ukraine remains undefeated — and so does our commitment.
