Ukraine Supporters Protest Russian Aggression at White House (photos)

Blue and yellow striped flags were ubiquitous as supporters of Ukraine gathered in Lafayette Square near the White House in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, Feb. 27, to condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine, then entering its fourth day.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was a focus of much of their ire as demonstrators urged President Joe Biden to do more to halt the Russian advance by imposing greater sanctions against Russia, and by stepping up military aid to Ukraine. It was one of many such mass gatherings in major cities around the world to chants of “Slava Ukraini! [Glory to Ukraine].”

A great many had family in Ukraine and their concerns were palpable. Dianna Shypialo of Bethesda, Maryland, a second-generation American of Ukrainian descent, could speak for many: “I am here to support my family in Ukraine who are displaced and currently fighting for their lives…. I am just here to pray for peace, that it can be resolved as quickly and as peaceably as possible.” She was last in touch with her family on Friday. “I don’t know where they are. Nobody is safe but [as of Friday] they are at least alive.” 

View a slideshow of Jeff Malet’s photos from the protest outside the White House by clicking on the photo icons below.

tagsBidendemonstrationinvasionprotestPutinRussiaUkrainewarWhite House