Sonoma vigil marks one year since Russia invaded Ukraine

The Sonoma/Kaniv Sister Cities held a candlelight vigil on Sonoma Plaza February 24, a date that marked one year since the Russian invasion of the Ukraine.

A message from the Sister City Committee: “Kaniv has been our sister cities since 1987 and there have been many exchanges over the past 35 years. Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine in February of 2022 has strengthened our sister city commitment to Kaniv and our focus now is helping them during the time of war by raising money for humanitarian aid.

“Kaniv is located just 90 miles south of Kyiv on the Dnieper river and is the site of a large hydroelectric plant. Because the plant is part of Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, Kaniv has become a prime target for Russian missiles.

“Since the beginning of the war Kaniv has continuously hosted an average of 4000 internal refugees who are either passing through to safer countries, or living there temporarily. Their public buildings have become refugee centers and the people of Kaniv have become full time volunteers cooking and caring for refugees while dealing with their own personal loss of life and livelihood.

“Through the generosity of our Sonoma community, we raised over $100,000 in 2022 which was used for humanitarian aid and protective gear for their regional defense. We hope to raise and equal amount this year. Thank you in advance for your generous donation. 100% of your donation will be sent to Kaniv to aid them in their struggle for independence. We thank you again for your generosity .

“You may donate on this Givebutter site with a credit card, Venmo, PayPal, or a check made payable to Sonoma Sister Cities Association indicating “Ukraine” on the subject line and mailing to SSCA/Kaniv Committee, PO Box 1975 Sonoma, CA 95476. Sonoma Sister Cities Association is a registered non-profit 501(c) (3) organization, Federal I.D. # 68-0108056.”

Photos by Steve Meloan