Credit: Ali Sahib, Chronicle.lu
On Saturday 23 August 2025, LUkraine asbl, a non-profit organisation representing Luxembourg's Ukrainian community, hosted a fundraising car rally in Luxembourg-Kirchberg to mark Ukrainian Flag Day and Independence Day.
The event brought together around a few dozen vehicles - approximately 30 cars, along with several motorcycles - adorned with Ukrainian symbols, which took part in a one-hour car rally through Luxembourg.
Speaking to Chronicle.lu, LUkraine asbl President Nicolas Zharov emphasised the importance of unity and ongoing support. “The goal remains the same - to bring people together and spread our message: the war is ongoing, and we must remain united,” he stated, highlighting the symbolic power of the Ukrainian flag and the need to stand behind those defending it. He added that this year’s summer gathering was intentionally kept informal, without a fixed target for attendance, serving as a space for the community to “meet, talk and spend time together” ahead of what he described as typically “the most challenging periods” in autumn and winter.
The NGO also organised the event as a fundraiser, with donations going towards the purchase of pickup trucks for the “Kraken unit”, a special operations group, described as playing a vital role in Ukraine’s defence. Following the car rally, participants came together informally at the Kyosk venue in Parc Central, Luxembourg-Kirchberg, where several stands offered handmade crafts in exchange for donations.
This initiative formed part of ongoing efforts to support Ukrainian frontline needs. As Nicolas Zharov explained, “The minimum target is €6,000, ideally up to €10,000, as vehicle prices vary. The better and more reliable the vehicle we can purchase, the better.” He noted that the fundraising drive would continue beyond the rally, with another event planned at a Ukrainian restaurant on Sunday 24 August 2025 to support the same cause.
Reflecting on the wider context, Mr Zharov acknowledged the fatigue felt by both Ukrainians and Europeans after more than three years of war. “Of course, everyone is tired - both Ukrainians and Europeans. But that does not mean we should reduce our activity,” he stressed. “On the contrary, it means we must double or triple our efforts to ensure that war and Russian aggression do not become accepted as normal.” He warned against the illusion of a quick or easy peace, noting: “Unfortunately, we still do not see light at the end of the tunnel. The world continues to chase the illusion of peace. But peace will not come unless Russia is defeated or unless we agree to make concessions in exchange for long-term stability.”
