USA: In between songs and prayers, Ukrainians in the U.S. gather outside the White House to mourn for those killed this week in Kiev

Record ID: 215688

  • Title: USA: In between songs and prayers, Ukrainians in the U.S. gather outside the White House to mourn for those killed this week in Kiev
  • Date: 23rd February 2014
  • Summary: WASHINGTON D.C., UNITED STATES (FEBRUARY 23, 2014) (REUTERS) PEOPLE SINGING CLOSE OF MAN SINGING PROTESTERS HOLDING PRO-UKRAINE POSTERS YOUNG GIRL WITH COLORS OF UKRAINE FLAG PAINTED ON HER FACE WOMEN WITH FLOWERS IN THEIR HAIR
  • Embargoed: 10th March 2014 12:00
  • Keywords:
  • Location: Usa
  • Country: USA
  • Topics: International Relations,Politics
  • Reuters ID: LVA46KSWZZQWH8PVQDMQC37GLJZK
  • Story Text: Scores of protesters rallied outside the White House on Sunday (February 23) to honor those killed in the Ukraine this week.
    Wearing the traditional Ukrainian flower wreaths and waving the national flag, Ukrainians of all ages came to show their support. Many urged the United States to support the struggle for democracy and freedom in the country.
    The gathering happened as an acting president takes over for the impeached Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich - a move welcomed by many gathered at the rally.

    "I'm really happy. I've been waiting for this moment for a long time. It's sad how it ended up with all these people dying, but I'm happy Yanukovich is going. I wish the best for my country," said Dan Rusyn, a Ukrainian living in Philadelphia.
    Three months of mostly peaceful protests began after Yanukovich ditched the European Union for Russia, an association that angered many Ukrainians.

    "Ukrainians do not want this association with Russia. They were going toward Europe. That's how this bloodshed started. They wanted to go toward Europe. We have nothing to do with Putin and his evil ways and we refuse to let him take advantage of our country," Orysia Hewka, a Ukrainian living in Philadelphia.
    Yanukovich fled Kiev on Saturday (February 22) following dozens of deaths during street protests aimed at toppling him
  • Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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