Join the call: cities and regions stand with Ukraine

Hello,

We are writing to share with you the initiative of PES Group member Dario Nardella, Mayor of Florence and President of Eurocities, to join a pan-European demonstration in support of Ukraine.

During the European Summit of Regions and Cities of last week, Nardella shared a statement saying:

“I take inspiration from my friend, Mayor of Marseille, Benoît Payan. I propose that we invite local people, especially our Ukrainian and Russian communities, to link arms, or share a moment in front of or around our city halls”.

WHAT: A shared moment of solidarity for Ukraine

WHERE: In front of city halls across Europe

WHEN: Saturday 12 March

With the slogan #CitiesWithUkraine, we invite you to join this initiative by organising a demonstration in your cities and regions in support of Ukraine and for peace.

Bologna, Marseille, Milan, Rotterdam, Rome, Sevilla and many other progressive cities already joined this call.

If you decide to support it, please let us know also by e-mail at [email protected] so we can communicate about it.

Share your solidarity projects with us!

Is your city or region already on the frontline when it comes to creating measures to support Ukrainian fleeing from the war or sending humanitarian aid to the country?

The PES Group has started a collection of concrete actions of solidarity across Europe. Please share with us a short message with links and photos, by writing to [email protected] and we will share your initiatives on our website and social media. It is a small action, but we hope it can help you connect and inspire others.

European cities and regions united in solidarity with Ukraine

As the news of Russia’s brutal aggression of Ukraine reached cities and regions across the European Union, many reacted first with disbelief by condemning Russia’s violation of international law and showing support for Ukrainian people. These first comments were quickly followed by concrete actions of solidarity, with many cities illuminating their monuments with the colours of the Ukrainian flag, regions working to welcome refugees, or other cities making public transport free for them.

PES Group in the European Committee of the Regions

We remain at your disposal for further information.

Best regards,

The PES Group Secretariat