Communists attack Holodomor memorial event in Greece

Greek Communist Party members attacked pro-Ukrainian supporters at an event in Mandra on Nov. 23 that was dedicated to honoring the victims of the Holodomor, the Ukrainian-Hellenic Thought publication reports.

The event participants, including many children from Ukrainian schools and associations, had peacefully gathered at the Athenian suburb’s Taras Shevchenko monument. The purpose of the rally was to honor those who were killed by the regime of Soviet tyrant Joseph Stalin.

However, the attackers, carrying communist symbols, blocked access to the monument, shouted insults and threats, and resorted to aggressive behavior, witnesses reported.

“There was an atmosphere of fear and chaos where there should have been a prayer,” said a Ukrainian priest, commenting on the incident.

During the ensuing melee, a Ukrainian Embassy diplomat was injured, and the children present experienced significant emotional distress.

The Ukrainian Embassy in Greece condemned the disruption of the event, emphasizing that it had deep historical and emotional significance for the Ukrainian people.

“We urge Greek law enforcement authorities to immediately investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable,” the diplomatic post said.

Greece does not recognize the Holodomor as genocide, despite significant efforts by the Ukrainian community and international Ukrainian leaders, the Ukrainian-Hellenic Thought group writes. 

“This is largely due to the long-standing influence of Russian propaganda, which has deeply entrenched itself not only in the left-wing electorate but also in a significant portion of Greek society,” the group added.