Inauguration of a Meaningful Tradition
Kyiv witnessed the initiation of a significant tradition termed the "Memorial Bell Ceremony of Remembrance and Hope" at the National Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra starting from December 5. This tradition aims to honor those in captivity, missing civilians, and individuals unlawfully detained in Moscow.
Symbolism of the Bells
Every day, following a moment of national silence, the bell ringer will strike the largest bell in the Lavra nine times, symbolizing the nine years of war. This serves as a poignant reminder to Ukrainians and the global community about those in captivity, the missing, and individuals unjustly detained.
Words from Officials
Maxim Ostapenko, the Director-General of the National Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, emphasized the importance of this tradition, envisioning its culmination when the last Ukrainian prisoner returns home. Tetiana Kalmikova, Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine, stressed the current need for unity among all defenders of the homeland, every Ukrainian, and those fighting for justice and unity.
Remembrance and International Efforts
Efforts are relentless for the swift return of Ukrainian citizens, as highlighted by Kalmikova, who reiterated the state's collaboration with international organizations and utilization of all resources to bring citizens back home.
Unwavering Remembrance
Yuriy Hudymenko, a Ukrainian Armed Forces serviceman, emphasized the obligation to remember those who fought, were imprisoned, lost their lives, or went missing, stressing the importance of daily remembrance.
This ceremony underscores Ukraine's commitment to remembering and seeking the return of its citizens, while negotiations for the release of captives continue despite the lack of sincere efforts from Russian military leadership.