Scores of people gathered in solidarity with Ukraine in the East Village Tuesday night to voice their outrage over the Trump administration cutting off aid to the Eastern European nation in its ongoing struggle to defeat invading Russia.
The rally, organized by the American Coalition for Ukraine and a host of local organizations, came after President Trump paused military aid for Ukraine after a heated meeting with the country’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Since Vladimir Putin’s forces invaded Ukraine in 2022, U.S. military aid has been crucial for Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russia. The U.S. provided equipment, intelligence, training, and financial support. A withdrawal of this aid could weaken Ukraine’s military capabilities and resilience against Russian forces.
Beyond military aid, total withdrawal could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, where civilians are suffering from the effects of war. U.S. support typically extends to humanitarian assistance, and a reduction could lead to increased hardships for the Ukrainian population.
One Ukrainian immigrant named Pavlevych, who moved to the United States seven years ago, shared her perspective on the importance of freedom and opportunity, values he feels are shared by both America and Ukraine.
“I am angry,” she said. “Our government is losing its tracks, and we’re here to remind them what Americans want and what they care about.” Her remarks highlighted the frustration many feel over a recent stalling of military aid to Ukraine.
The rally also featured critiques of past U.S. administrations, including President Donald Trump.
“This is not what Americans stand for. Americans know what paused aid means—it’s a sign of weakness,” she said.“America stands for peace through power, not peace through surrender.”
She called for immediate action to resume aid for Ukraine and establish security guarantees against further Russian aggression.
Many rallies pointed out the broader implications of the conflict, underscoring that the fight is not just for Ukraine but for global democracy and freedom. A representative from the Taiwanese American community echoed these sentiments, emphasizing shared struggles against oppressive regimes; Taiwan has lived under the constant threat of potential invasion from the communist People’s Republic of China for decades.
Yevhen Maistren, a former chief commander who was wounded while fighting for Ukraine, shared his testimony with the crowd before pleading with them to continue shining light on the conflict.
“I beg you, as a soldier, as a Marine Corps, and as a veteran of Ukraine, to please help Ukraine. And to know, I know if we don’t sign a cease-fire, I know Russia will come back to me. They’re gonna kill my family. They’re gonna kill my soldiers, and Russia won’t stop again. They’re gonna become to Europe and much further, I ask you, deeply from my heart, help Ukraine,” Maistren told amNewYork Metro.
The rally was not just limited to voices from the Ukrainian community; Syrian Americans spoke in support of Ukraine, drawing parallels between Syrian experiences and those in Ukraine.
Alexander C., a representative from the American Coalition for Ukraine, concluded the rally with a call to action.
“In moments like this, throughout history, it’s our communities that get us through,” he said.
Attendees will now likely contact their representatives to advocate for continual support for Ukraine. Their message is clear: the fight for Ukraine’s sovereignty is a fight for democracy worldwide, and efforts from every individual are crucial.
