Ukrainians in Spain honor war victims with Empty Chairs’ memorial

The Ukrainian community in Spain held a memorial event titled, “Empty Chairs” to honor those who have been killed or gone missing during the Russo-Ukrainian war. The event took place on Jan. 26 in Valencia, according to Mykhaylo Petrunyak, President of the Federation of Associations of Ukrainians in Spain. The Bandera de Ucrania community, with the support of Lucia Zadorozhna, the representative of the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, organized the event.

“Each of these chairs represents a life cut short by war. These are voices silenced in captivity or lost in the unknown. Today, we stayed silent so the world could hear,” Bandera de Ucrania said.

Participants observed a moment of silence to draw global attention to the tragedy. 

“Don’t be apathetic – captivity kills!” the organizers said.

The community urged people to support the cause by sharing news of the event on social media. 

“We are strong when united,” the organizers said.