Ukrainians in Prague link human chain of unity on iconic Charles Bridge

The Ukrainian community in Czechia’s capital of Prague on Jan. 19, alongside friends of Ukraine, came together in the historic center of the city to form a human chain of unity in honor of Ukraine’s national Unity Day, observed on Jan. 22.

“In the face of Ukraine’s resistance to Russian aggression, unity holds even deeper symbolism and urgency. Now, more than ever, Ukrainians must unite for their future,” stated the Embassy of Ukraine in the Czech Republic.

The event took place on Prague’s iconic Charles Bridge, with several hundred people participating. 

“Unfortunately, today, just as more than 100 years ago, our state is being torn apart by an enemy – the Russian Federation. They want to destroy our unity once again. That’s why we must stand together like never before… We are united. In our unity lies our strength. And in this unity, our victory will be found,” said Vasyl Zvarych, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the Czech Republic.

Ukrainians around the world are preparing to mark the anniversary of the unification of eastern and western Ukraine in 1919. The holiday was established that year to honor the union of the Ukrainian National Republic (UNR) and the West Ukrainian National Republic (ZUNR). 

The tradition of forming human chains of unity on this day dates back to Jan. 21, 1990, when between 500,000 and 3 million Ukrainians formed a human chain from Kyiv to Ivano-Frankivsk.

This powerful action has become a symbol of the Ukrainian people’s enduring struggle for freedom and their commitment to restoring national statehood.

For more about Unity Day events across other cities and countries, visit the official UWC Facebook page.