On August 23, 2026, São Paulo became the venue for a large-scale demonstration in support of Ukraine. On the eve of the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukraine’s independence, Ukrainians, Brazilians, and representatives of various nationalities gathered on one of the city’s most famous thoroughfares—Avenida Paulista—to express solidarity with the Ukrainian people and their struggle for freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
The event, dedicated to Ukraine’s Independence Day, became not only a memorable occasion for the Ukrainian community in São Paulo, but also a powerful manifestation of international support for Ukraine. Blue and yellow flags, Ukrainian symbols, traditional clothing, and numerous participants created a special atmosphere of unity and solidarity.
Ukraine marks 35 years since the restoration of its independence on August 24, 2026. It was on August 24, 1991, that the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted the Act of Declaration of Independence of Ukraine. This year’s anniversary holds particular significance as Ukrainians continue to defend their state and their right to determine their own future.
The event was rendered particularly significant by the participation of representatives from diplomatic, political, civic, and international organizations.
Among the guests of honor were Jorge Rybka, Honorary Consul of Ukraine in São Paulo, alongside his wife Márcia Rybka, as well as Elizeu Lima, Honorary Consul of Fiji.
Representatives of the Consulate General of Lithuania in São Paulo—Antanas Baltušis and Maksim Davidiuk—also joined the demonstration. Their presence served as yet another testament to international solidarity with Ukraine.
Among the participants was also Mara Gabrilli, Senator of the Republic of Brazil, who has consistently demonstrated support for Ukraine since the very beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion.
The event was joined by Thubten Wangchen, Director of Tibet House Brasil and representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Latin America. His presence underscored the universality of the values Ukraine is fighting for today: freedom, peace, human dignity, and a nation’s right to determine its own future.
Among the guests were also Eduardo Jorge, former Federal Deputy of Brazil, and Fabio Bosco, representative of the CSP-Conlutas trade union federation and participant in the “Workers Aid to Ukraine” campaign.
The cultural program became an essential part of the demonstration.
The Ukrainian folklore ensemble Kyiv de São Paulo presented a performance for the participants, showcasing the beauty of Ukrainian music, traditions, and folk culture.
For Ukrainians abroad today, culture is not merely a way to preserve traditions. It is also a way to assert their identity, history, and right to be heard.
That is why Ukrainian vyshyvankas, flags, songs, and folk motifs became an integral part of the event on Avenida Paulista.
The event in São Paulo demonstrated that support for Ukraine extends far beyond the Ukrainian community.
Standing side by side were Ukrainians living in Brazil, Brazilians, representatives of other nationalities, diplomats, politicians, public figures, and people for whom Ukraine’s struggle has become a matter of defending the fundamental principles of freedom and sovereignty.
On the day Ukraine marks the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its independence, São Paulo demonstrated that the Ukrainian voice is heard in Latin America as well.
This demonstration served as a reminder that independence is not merely a historical date. It is a nation’s everyday right to live in a free state, determine its own future, and defend its land.
Thank you to everyone who stood with Ukraine in São Paulo on August 23. To all Ukrainians, Brazilians, and friends of Ukraine who came to support Ukraine’s freedom, peace, and independence.
Author: Olena Zhukova
Photo: Pedro Fratino