Hundreds Rally in Budapest Supporting Ukraine Anniversary

When hundreds of people gathered in Budapest's streets last Sunday, they sent a powerful message: compassion doesn't need government permission.

Civil organizations organized the demonstration to mark the upcoming fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Around 200 attendees showed up to demand an end to the aggression and support their Ukrainian neighbors.

The gathering was especially meaningful given Hungary's complex political position. While the government is considered an ally of Russia, ordinary Hungarians have opened their hearts to Ukrainian refugees.

"Wherever Ukrainian refugees arrived, they were welcomed with love here in Hungary," a Ukrainian woman who has lived in the country for years told reporters. "Orbán and the Hungarian people are not the same."

Her words capture something important. Approximately 60,000 Ukrainian refugees have found safety in Hungary, welcomed by communities throughout the country.

Budapest's City Council and Ukraine's embassy held a joint commemoration in City Hall park. Ambassador Sándor Fegyir spoke about the ongoing struggle and its importance to all of Europe.

Mayor Gergely Karácsony emphasized why this matters beyond borders. "It is very important that we stand up for our Ukrainian friends, who are fighting not only for their own freedom, but for the possibility of a just peace in Europe," he said.

The Ripple Effect

The demonstrations reveal how grassroots compassion can flourish even when official policies create tension. Regular citizens, civil organizations, and local leaders are creating their own path forward.

In central Budapest's Madách Square, an outdoor exhibition titled "The Invisible Wounds of Ukrainian Childhood" displays drawings by children who have lost family members. The artwork gives voice to young survivors and helps Hungarians understand the human cost of war.

These acts of solidarity show that people can disagree with their government while still offering refuge to those in need. The 60,000 Ukrainians who've found safety in Hungary have encountered kindness at the border, in Budapest, and in communities throughout the country.

The gatherings prove that humanity and compassion can create bridges even when politics builds walls.