Ukrainian flag flies from Cinquantenaire arch to mark first anniversary of war

The blue and yellow flag of Ukraine was hoisted above the Triumphal Arch in Cinquantenaire Park on Friday in support for the people of the war-torn country.

One year on from the Russian invasion, Brussels joined several other European capitals in adorning emblematic buildings with the Ukrainian flag.

Belgium’s foreign minister Hadja Lahbib said of the gesture: "With the Cinquantenaire arches in Brussels, in the heart of Europe, draped in the colours of Ukraine, Belgium pays tribute to the Ukrainian people who show courage and resistance to defend our values, freedom and democracy.”

She said Belgium stood in solidarity with Ukraine and pledged to continue to tirelessly support the Ukrainian people.

Secretary of state for digitalisation and buildings agency Mathieu Michel added: “Russia’s aggression against Ukraine poses the greatest threat to peace and security in Europe since the end of World War Two.”

The invasion was a flagrant violation of international law, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, he said.

Photo: © War Heritage Institute