In central London, hundreds of supporters of Ukraine took to the streets to commemorate the second anniversary of the Russian invasion.

The demonstrators assembled at Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park before proceeding to Trafalgar Square for a vigil.

Many draped themselves in Ukrainian flags, while others held signs urging Russia to "stop the war."

According to the UN, at least 10,582 civilians have lost their lives in Ukraine since the commencement of Russia's invasion in February 2022.

As they marched through the streets, some chanted "stand with Ukraine," and women adorned traditional Ukrainian wreaths on their heads.

Nataliia Rusinko, who left her husband to combat Russian forces while she came to the UK, expressed the difficulty of her decision, saying, "It was very hard because I didn't know for how long I would have to leave, and to leave my husband behind."

Her daughter Anna added, "It was a hard decision because my friends were still there, and they were my only friends that I had."

In addition to the march, a multi-faith church service was held at London's Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral.

The Right Reverend Kenneth Nowakowski, Bishop for Ukrainian Catholics in Great Britain, emphasized the importance of hope for an end to the war, stating, "We also today have to focus on two things. First of all hope that this war will come to an end, not just a ceasefire but a victory and peace with justice."

The Church characterized the events across London and the UK as "vital" in urging solidarity against aggression.

Paper angels adorned the balcony of the Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral, symbolizing the 528 Ukrainian children killed during the conflict.

Thousands of visas have been issued to Ukrainians under various schemes, with many arriving in London.

Iryna Terlecky from the Association of Ukrainians described the emotional state of the arrivals, saying, "People are very emotional. Many of them have lived through unimaginable trauma."

Housing Minister Felicity Buchan, attending the service, affirmed the UK's support for Ukraine, declaring, "This is the moment to affirm tyranny will never win and we will stand by Ukraine today and tomorrow."

Two children, Sofia and Katia, shared their experiences of fleeing Ukraine and expressed gratitude to the UK for its support.

Sofia recounted the trauma of fleeing Kyiv and the loss of her grandfather due to Russian shelling.

Since February 24, 2022, the UN has verified the deaths of 10,582 Ukrainians and injuries to 19,875, with actual numbers likely to be higher. Photo by The wub, Wikimedia commons.