On August 24, 2026, on Ukraine’s Independence Day, one of Italy’s most famous landmarks—the ancient Colosseum in Rome—was illuminated in blue and yellow. In this way, the capital of Italy joined in celebrating the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence, demonstrating profound solidarity and support for the Ukrainian people. Near the walls of the Colosseum, a rally was held by Ukrainian activists, community representatives, and numerous friends of Ukraine, joined by a group of activists who traveled specifically from Naples. The event was attended by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to Italy, Ihor Brusylo, who addressed the crowd with words of support.
Among the participants in the solemn events was Zhanna Zhukova, representative of Business Woman magazine in Italy. She joined the celebration in a distinctive outfit that drew widespread attention and became a symbol of Ukraine. Zhanna appeared in a gown featuring a corset embroidered with stones in the shape of wheat ears, a wheat-ear wreath, and a five-meter blue-and-yellow train that strikingly highlighted national symbolism. The attire and accessories were created specifically by Ukrainian designer Victoria Fenix, who relocated to Italy following the start of the full-scale invasion, turning the look into an artistic embodiment of Ukrainian identity, strength, and resilience.
Sharing her impressions, Zhanna Zhukova noted that it was a great honor for her to embody such an image and to stand among true patriots on an evening of unity and solidarity, while also expressing gratitude to Italy for its support. During the event beneath the blue-and-yellow Colosseum, Ukrainians raised national flags, sang the National Anthem of Ukraine, honored the memory of fallen Heroes, and joined in fundraising for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The organization and coordination of the event were provided by the Christian Association of Ukrainians in Italy and local activists, who expressed special gratitude to Oles Horodetskyy, as well as to the Embassy of Ukraine in Italy and Ambassador Ihor Brusylo for their initiative and ongoing support of the community.
Author: Zhanna Zhukova
Photo: from the author’s archive