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‘Ukraine is whole, it cannot be divided,’ protesters chanted together.

Ukrainians in Istanbul condemned on Sunday, 29 September, Russia’s attacks on Ukraine as part of the Ukrainian National Guard Day event.

Ukrainians living in Istanbul gathered at Beyoglu’s Odakule square, holding banners against Russia, which has continued its “special military operation” in Ukraine since February 2022.

The demonstrators called for Russia’s withdrawal from Ukraine, chanting slogans such as: “Ukraine is whole, it cannot be divided.”

In his speech, Roman Nedilsky, Ukraine’s consul general in Istanbul, thanked countries that are supporting his nation. “Today, among us are the relatives of those held captive by Russia. We offer our deepest thanks and respect to them. Your support and coordinated efforts are bringing us closer to peace and to Ukraine’s victory. We pray that you will soon be reunited with your loved ones,” he said.

Ergun Sevimsoy, a board member of the Crimean Turks Cultural and Mutual Aid Association’s Istanbul branch, affirmed their support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

Representatives of the Crimean Turk, Chechen, and Circassian associations also attended the event standing shoulder-to-shoulder with each other.