Canadians are gathering from coast to coast today to mark the one year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress is spearheading dozens of rallies and vigils across the country.

The events will be happening throughout the day with most including candlelight vigils - including a vigil at the Comox Marina Park starting at 5pm.

Tens of thousands of civilian Ukrainians have died in the last year while tens of millions were displaced.

More than 11,000 Ukrainians have arrived in B.C. since the war started.

“One year ago today, the world watched in horror as Russia launched its unprovoked attack on Ukraine, building on a pattern that started with the annexation of Crimea in 2014.”, said Anne Kang, Minister of Municipal Affairs.

“Since then, Ukrainians have suffered unimaginable losses while demonstrating incredible strength and courage, up until this very day.“

To read the full statement, visit Government of British Columbia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a video address Friday morning, vowing to push for victory in 2023.