Nationwide moment of silence to be held in UK on February 24

The British government has announced that a nationwide minute of silence will be held on Friday, February 24, at 11:00 am (1:00 pm Kyiv time). Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will lead the nation in silence from Downing Street.

“This national moment of reflection will offer the UK public the chance to pay tribute to the courage of the Ukrainian people and demonstrate the UK’s unwavering solidarity with the country,” the message says. 

The government called for individuals and organizations across the country to join the one-minute silence, recalling that since the beginning of the war, thousands of Ukrainians have died defending their freedom from Russia's horrific attack, and millions more have been forced to flee their homes. In particular, 114,400 Ukrainians have taken refuge in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme.

“As we approach the anniversary of Russia’s barbaric and deplorable invasion of Ukraine, as a nation we pay tribute to the incredible bravery and resilience of the Ukrainian people. Russia’s unjustifiable attack brought war and destruction to our continent once again, and it has forced millions from their homes and devastated families across Ukraine and Russia. I am incredibly proud of the UK’s response, and throughout this past year, the UK public have shown their true generosity of spirit and their enduring belief in freedom,” Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said.