Islanders gather in Charlottetown to show support for Ukraine

Grace Biswas hasn't slept much in the last few days. 

"I received messages from my friends every day — audio messages with tears in their voice as they're trying to flee the country," said the 23-year-old who grew up in Kyiv, Ukraine. 

"It breaks my heart." 

On Sunday morning, Biswas arrived at Charlottetown city hall. A rally had been organized to show support for Ukraine after Russia launched an invasion late last week. 

To her amazement, a large crowd slowly trickled in.

"I was very surprised about how many people actually came and showed their support," she said, noting that many were Islanders who had no direct connection to Ukraine.

"They also came and they listened and they were spreading the word as well. That means a lot." 

Some carried signs that read "Stop War" or "Stand With Ukraine." A group of children waved the country's national flag and cars honked their horns as they drove by.

"Usually it makes me cry when I see that someone not from Ukraine shows their support," said Olexsandra Bezruchko, who is from Ukraine. 

"My relatives are still there.... They're scared because they're seeking shelter right now instead of just having a great, wonderful Sunday."

Members of the community also gave speeches during the event. In the crowd, some cried while others listened in silence. 

"We wish it was just a terrifying dream but unfortunately it's the truth," said one speaker. 

"We will never give up. We, Ukrainians, stand before you to show our faith and courage," said another. 

A flag-raising ceremony followed the speeches.  As the Ukrainian national anthem played loudly in downtown Charlottetown, the country's flag was raised outside the government building.