Demonstrators in Brussels call for peace in Ukraine, appeal for emergency aid

Two protests in Brussels on Saturday called for the end of the military conflict in Ukraine as Western countries stepped up sanctions against Russia amid increasing international support for Ukraine this weekend.

Around 150 demonstrators gathered at the Carrefour de l’Europe in front of central station at 13.00, reports RTBF. They demanded an end to arms deliveries to Russia, called on Belgium to adopt a position of neutrality and showed their solidarity for the victims of the conflict.

Demonstrators brandished banners reading ‘Putin terrorist’, ‘Has history taught us nothing?’ or ‘No bombs but peace’. Some carried communist flags.

It was organised by a number of organisations, including Ander Europa, Agir pour la Paix, CNAPD, COMAC, Intal, North South Forum, Christian Movement for Peace, Pax Christi Vlaanderen, Vrede vzw and Vredesactie.

Later, around 14.30, a rally was attended by more than 3,000 people in front of the Russian representation to the EU at Arts-Loi metro station (pictured above and main image).

Joining the large number of Ukrainians present, were Russians, French and Belgian nationals.

One Ukrainian at the gathering described it as a peaceful event. “People, even Russian citizens were crying and I can tell you that our eyes are not drying up from sadness and pain.”

Another Ukrainian national told The Bulletin her great-grandfather fought against the Germans in 1941 to 1945 as the captain of a tank division, losing an arm in the conflict. “Now they are fighting against each other. Now Russia became the enemy and our kids will hate Russia." 

Some Ukrainians fought with the Russian Army in two world wars. "We were brothers, sisters, mixed families, now it’s hell. Soldiers who died are rolling over in their graves,” she added.

Appeal for emergency aid for Ukraine

A collection organised by the Ukrainian community is calling for warm clothes, socks, blankets, medicaments, baby supplies, pampers, candles and food items with a long shelf life. “All the things which can help in such difficult times.”

The collection point is in front of the Embassy of Ukraine at 30 Avenue Albert Lancaster in Uccle.

The embassy has launched a humanitarian appeal on its Facebook page. It’s serving as a coordination centre for people wishing to provide aid, help financially or provide free housing for Ukrainians.