Artists perform concerts in Ukraine’s Lviv to protest Russia

By Abdullah Tevge

LVIV, Ukraine (AA) - Artists performed two separate concerts Wednesday in the Ukrainian city of Lviv to protest Russian attacks against Ukraine.

Residents showed their support with applause for the shows that were organized by the Lviv Symphony Orchestra and Mykola Lysenko Music Academy and performed on Rynok Square and Svobody Avenue.

“We wanted to show the whole world how strong Ukraine is. We also have a deep-rooted culture. We have a lot to say to the world,” said Victoriai, an artist in the choir.

A large number of people attended the concerts with Ukrainian flags. Some recorded the historical moment on their mobile phones.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began on Feb. 24, has drawn international condemnation, led to financial sanctions on Moscow, and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 726 civilians have been killed and 1,174 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war.

More than 3 million refugees have fled to neighboring countries, according to the UN.

*Writing by Gozde Bayar in Ankara