Hundreds of protestors stood outside the Russian embassy in Dublin on 24th of February to protest the illegal invasion on Ukraine. Organised by Fórsa and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU), the #StandWithUkraine rally marked one month since Russian forces barged into Ukraine, kicking off an illegal invasion and a horrific war.

The massive turnout expressed solidarity with the children, women and men in all of Ukraine as well as representatives of the Ukrainian community in Ireland, who were also present at the rally.

Speaking at the rally, Kevin Callinan, President of ICTU, echoed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelentskiy’s words that the attack on Ukraine was an attack on democracy across Europe.

“This is a concept we fully understand and endorse as trade unionists. For us, an injury to one is always an injury to all.

“The peoples of Ireland and all Europe have been inspired by the principled and courageous resistance of the Ukrainian people, and by your determination to get Russia out of your country. We support peace. But it must be a just peace, built on respect for democracy, self-determination, and humanity.

“That’s why Congress is clear that Russian troops are unwelcome in Ukraine, and they must clear out,” said Kevin.

Kevin also applauded the determination of the public servants, airport workers, port staff and others, who were working around the clock to welcome refugees from the war.

“It’s humbling to see such a magnificent display of solidarity from ordinary working people as we remember those who have died, those who are grieving, and those who have lost everything because of this terrible war,” he said.

Fórsa recently announced that it had raised half-a-million Euro from union members, activists, and branches which was to be donated to the Irish Red Cross and the International Trade Union Confederation solidarity fund to support humanitarian efforts on the ground. Ukraine’s ambassador to Ireland Larysa Gerasko, also addressed the rally and gave a grave outline of the Russian military’s operations in her country and of her people’s expectations from the international community.

She also called for the expulsion of Russian diplomats in Ireland, and to hold Russia responsible for violating International law.