This Thursday at 10:00 AM in Nice, a gathering was held in support of Ukraine against Russia. More than sixty people gathered in front of the Negresco.
“I can’t imagine what our families must endure,” explained a Ukrainian woman, tears in her eyes. It was in a somber atmosphere that about sixty people gathered on Thursday, February 24, in front of the Negresco in Nice. Last night, Vladimir Putin decided to invade Ukraine after weeks of tension at the border. In this context, Oksana, 35, attended the gathering to show her support: “I was born in Kyiv, and what’s happening in my country saddens me deeply. I feel so powerless.” The situation is burdensome for these residents of Nice originally from Ukraine. Some have lost contact with their families, and according to their relatives, they are trying to survive: “My entire family is there. I haven’t heard from them for two days. The last time, they told me they had received instructions. If they hear the alert sirens, they must flee, leave the country, or hide in the subway,” confides a crying Ukrainian national.
This assembly is also supported by passersby. Alain and Martine were taking a stroll when they came across this gathering: “I heard what was happening, and my wife and I decided to show our support as well. Seeing so many people suffer touches me, and I try to comfort them as much as possible.”
Under the gray sky and with the Mediterranean Sea behind them, about sixty people stand in front of the Negresco Palace with signs. “STOP RUSSIA,” “Solidarity with Ukraine,” “Ukraine, diplomacy #nice #peace.” Many people responded to the call, including women, children, young and elderly people: “We are here to send a message of hope. We are present and think of the Ukrainian people who are living in hell in their own country. We are ready to welcome them to our homes. Even if it’s not much, we will do every little thing necessary so they don’t feel alone,” says Loรฏc Martin, a Nice resident who came to support Ukraine.
Another support gathering for Ukraine is planned for this Sunday at 11 AM on the Promenade des Anglais.
