A new Alley of Heroes has been inaugurated in Kyiv to commemorate the defenders of Ukraine, featuring over 300 images of fallen soldiers.
The exhibition is spearheaded by Vira Lytvynenko, the mother of a soldier with the call sign 'Vector' and head of the organization 'Heart of the Fallen Defenders of Ukraine'. This marks the fourth consecutive year that portraits of heroes are displayed in Sofia Square, including soldiers from the 'Azov' regiment and others. Many attendees came to lay flowers and light candles in memory of the fallen.
"This exhibition is not just an art show; it is a chance to remember those who gave their lives for our freedom. I urge every Kyiv resident to visit this exhibition and feel the strength of our heroes' spirit," said Myroslava Smirnova, director of the Department of Public Communications of the Kyiv City State Administration.
She emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the community to rebuild the country. Each speech at the Square uplifted spirits and inspired resilience.
"Our soldiers do not back down; they fight for Ukraine, and we must support them," a fighter from 'Azov' stressed during his address.
Footage of the defense of Mariupol was shown on screens, alongside posts from fallen soldiers on social media. They all understood the risks but did not retreat.
Stanislav Ryzhенkov, the Kyiv City Council Commissioner for Veterans, addressed the attendees: "This place is about the heroes we knew personally. Each name represents a wound that never heals." The 'Family of Heroes' exhibition was also introduced for the first time, featuring artworks created by families of the fallen, available for donation to support the Armed Forces.
Vira Lytvynenko, who organized the event, stated: "In every story, there is a universe. It is an honor to remember our heroes."
Every day at 9 AM, Ukrainians honor the fallen during a nationwide moment of silence, reminded Victoria Mukha, a Kyiv City Council member and director of the Museum of the History of Kyiv.
The 'Warriors of Light' exhibition will continue until October 1.
