Ukraine’s Lviv hosts Europe Day amid war: 35 nations, EU officials show united front

Delegations from 35 countries, along with high-ranking EU officials and the Council of Europe, arrived in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv on May 9 for a day of high-level diplomatic engagement and symbolic celebration, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed.

The visit marks a significant show of solidarity with Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media.

Among the key events taking place in Lviv are a meeting of European Union foreign ministers and a session of the Core Group on the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine, both pivotal in reinforcing international legal and diplomatic support for Kyiv.

EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, and Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal are among the prominent figures present in Lviv. The visit began with a solemn commemoration at Lychakiv Cemetery, where foreign dignitaries paid tribute to Ukrainian heroes who have died defending the country from Russian aggression.

Kallas, who has been an outspoken advocate for Ukraine within the EU, shared moments from her visit on social media, posting on X:

“Today, we celebrate Europe Day with Ukraine and its people. Because in a family, both joys and hardships are shared. Together with Foreign Ministers, we stand united with Ukraine for a lasting peace. For the future we believe in.”

The date holds new meaning in Ukraine. Once associated with Soviet-era commemorations of World War II, May 9 has taken on fresh significance as Ukraine distances itself from its Soviet past and strengthens ties with Europe. Since 2003, Ukraine had celebrated Europe Day on the third Saturday in May. However, in May 2023, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree officially aligning the celebration with the European Union, designating May 9 as Ukraine's Europe Day.

This year’s events are especially notable not only for their diplomatic weight but also for their symbolic alignment with Ukraine’s westward trajectory and its bid to secure justice and peace amid ongoing hostilities.

By Vafa Guliyeva