The foreign ministers of European countries paid tribute to Ukrainian soldiers in Lviv
In Lviv, in honor of the heroic struggle and self-sacrifice of Ukrainian defenders, representatives of European diplomacy made a commemorative visit, during which they laid flowers and paid homage to those who fell in the Russia-Ukraine war. These significant events took place on May 9 — Europe Day, which this year became especially meaningful for the Ukrainian people, who continue their fight for independence and freedom. European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, together with ministers of foreign affairs from several European countries, arrived in Lviv to draw attention to the tragic yet heroic path of Ukrainian soldiers. In particular, in his speech, he emphasized that this date holds special significance not only for Europe but also for Ukraine, which on this day embodies resilience and the pursuit of freedom. “Today we celebrate Europe Day together, while simultaneously paying tribute and remembering those who gave their lives for the freedom of our shared home. The war on Ukrainian soil has become a symbol of unity and courage, and together with the Ukrainian people, we firmly believe in a brighter future that will surely come,” stated the EU diplomat in his speech, which was broadcast online. After the ceremonial speeches and tribute, European diplomats visited Lychakiv Cemetery, where the Field of Honor is located, bearing the graves of Ukrainian defenders who died in the war with Russian forces. Among those paying their respects were Ukraine’s Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Minister of Foreign Affairs Andriy Sybiha, and Lviv’s Mayor Andriy Sadovyi. The graves at Lychakiv Cemetery have become a symbol of Ukrainian resilience, struggle, and sacrifice to preserve independence. The background of this event dates back several days, when Kaja Kallas announced that in Lviv there would be an "ultimate political approval" for the creation of an international tribunal to prosecute Vladimir Putin for war crimes. This decision aims to be an important step in international efforts to ensure justice and hold accountable those responsible for human rights violations and aggression. Additionally, the German Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, also arrived in the city ahead of the event and participated in related activities. May 9 in Lviv became not only a day of remembrance and honoring heroes but also a demonstration of international solidarity and support for Ukraine in its fight for freedom. The diplomats’ visit was filled with symbolism — from flowers to the effort to tell the world the truth about the difficult trials faced by the Ukrainian people and their unbreakable spirit. Once again, this confirmed that the European Union and its member states do not leave Ukraine alone in the fight against the enemy and continue to uphold the principles of truth, justice, and unity in the struggle for the values of the European community.