Rebuild People To Rebuild Ukraine
Luxembourg, 18 November 2024
Press Release: 1000 Days of War in Europe
As we mark 1000 days of the full-scale war in Europe today, the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, leaving a profound impact on the lives of millions. The unprovoked aggression of Russia in Ukraine has resulted in devastating losses and widespread destruction, affecting children, families, and communities across the nation and beyond.
Ukrainians in Luxembourg will gather tomorrow next to the Chamber of Deputies to remind EU leaders that it is time for Europe to be brave and strong. The volunteers of LUkraine association will be giving the passing politicians the fired cartridge cases representing the need for continuous military support as well as blue-and-yellow ribbons that represent Ukrainian bravery protecting not only Ukraine but entire Europe against the Russian imperialistic war in Ukraine. This manifestation will be done under the slogan “Europe needs a piece of bravery, have one!”
Frightening facts and figures of the last 1000 days
By now, the financial losses of Ukraine’s economy exceed €1.1 trillion in lost revenue, Ukraine’s infrastructure is damaged leading to €700 billion in losses while 14 million Ukrainians need humanitarian aid. 2,244 children have been killed or injured, with reports indicating that 19,546 have been forcibly deported to Russia. 11,973 civilians have lost their lives, with 25,943 injured. These numbers are growing daily. On top of that, thousands of Ukrainian soldiers have been captured, with ongoing concerns regarding their treatment and conditions in captivity.
The war has led to the destruction of numerous cities like Mariupol, Avdiyivka, Rubizhne, Popasna, Kharkiv, and Bakhmut. Critical infrastructure has been severely damaged, including the healthcare facilities with over 1,000 attacks on healthcare recorded, crippling the ability to provide essential medical services, and educational institutions where approximately 6,000 schools were damaged or destroyed, disrupting education for millions of children.
Russia has committed more than 4,700 environmental crimes in Ukraine amounting to €61 billion and, according to the UN, endangering the lives and health of more than 6 million people. The destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in 2023 has had catastrophic ecological consequences, leading to significant flooding and environmental degradation.
Since the onset of the Russian invasion, Ukraine’s rich cultural heritage has faced unprecedented destruction, with UNESCO verifying damage to over 457 cultural sites, including 143 religious buildings, 231 historical structures, and numerous museums and libraries. This systematic assault on Ukraine’s cultural identity not only threatens the preservation of its historical artefacts but also represents a broader attempt at cultural erasure. The ongoing war has led to the loss of invaluable heritage, highlighting the urgent need for international support to safeguard and restore Ukraine’s cultural legacy.
The war has forced millions to flee their homes, with over 8 million people forced to leave Ukraine. Among them, around 5,000 have sought refuge in Luxembourg, where they are welcomed and supported as they await the resolution of the conflict. The Luxembourg government has provided ongoing assistance to Ukrainian refugees, ensuring their safety and integration into society. Unfortunately, the flow of refugees will not stop until Russia is stopped.
Luxembourg’s support for Ukraine
Luxembourg also demonstrated unwavering support for Ukraine through various initiatives equal to the total of over €220 million in aid: financial (significant contributions to humanitarian efforts and reconstruction projects), military support (provision of military equipment and training to Ukrainian forces) and refugee assistance (establishment of programs to support Ukrainian refugees, including housing, education, and healthcare services) as well as diplomatic efforts (active participation in international forums advocating for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity).
“As we reflect on the past 1000 days, it is crucial to remember the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the importance of international solidarity, ” said Nicolas Zharov, President of LUkraine. “The path to sustainable and just peace yet remains challenging. It is time for Europe to be strong, it is time for Europe to act. The decisions made today define our future. It is our common duty and responsibility to protect the international peace and security system.”
What can be done right now?
Confiscate all Russian frozen assets and allocate them integrally to support Ukraine, not just their accrued interest. Europe has the means to make Russia pay.
Establish an international tribunal to prosecute Russian war criminals starting the process as soon as possible. Russia is pursuing its aggression only because we allow them to do it.
Tighten existing sanctions on Russia by targeting sectors that remain untouched, such as energy loopholes and tech exports. Ensure no circumvention through third-party countries.
Provide Ukraine with advanced weapons systems and technologies including air defense, drones, and long-range artillery, to oppose Russian aggression effectively. Untie the hands of the Ukrainian army.
Fight Russian propaganda: Russia’s disinformation campaigns extend beyond fake news; they are a strategic tool of soft power aimed at undermining democracies, sowing division within societies, and eroding trust in institutions. We must recognize that this propaganda infiltrates not only social media but also cultural exchanges, academic partnerships, and international organizations.
“Peace is not a gift – it is a responsibility,” summed up Zharov. “It must be protected with courage, defended with strength, and upheld with justice.”
For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact LUkraine: inna.yaremenko@ukrainians.lu