Protestors gather in Melbourne to demand justice for Ukraine

Demonstrators gathered on the steps of Parliament House on Spring St in the CBD on July 10 to protest a recent Russian missile attack on Ukraine that tragically claimed the lives of 29 individuals.

The rally, organised by the Association of Ukrainians in Victoria, condemned a Russian airstrike that “deliberately” targeted a children's hospital in Ukraine, resulting in the deaths of four children and leaving 117 others injured.

“Okhmadyt Hospital was a place of hope and healing. It was a sanctuary where cancer patients and other vulnerable adults and children were treated by some of the best doctors in the world,” protestor Natalie Poshyvailo said.

“But on that fateful day, this beacon of hope was transformed into a scene of horror. Children who were fighting for their lives, doctors and nurses who dedicated their lives to saving others, and families who were simply seeking solace in the face of illness – all were caught in the crossfire of senseless violence.”

Protestors called for Russia to be held accountable for what they termed an “unmistakable war crime”, as well as urging the Australian Government to expel Russian diplomats, utilise frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, and remove Russia from its role in chairing the United Nations.

The rally also sought to honour the memory of the victims by taking action and “demanding justice”.

“We call on all Australians, all freedom-loving people, to join us in this fight. Write to your representatives, participate in rallies, spread the word, and let us ensure that the voices of the innocent are heard loud and clear,” Ms Poshyvailo said.

“We stand united in our grief, but more importantly, we stand united in our resolve.”

Photography by Hanna Komissarova.