On August 31, as Lithuania celebrated its Freedom Day, marking the end of Soviet occupation and the withdrawal of the last Soviet troops from its territory, Lithuanians once again demonstrated that the values of freedom and independence are more than just a memory.

On this day, so meaningful to Lithuanians who deeply understand the price of freedom, they dedicated their celebration to Ukraine. At the Vilnius Defensive Wall Bastion, an event under the slogan "Red Army, go home!" became a powerful symbol of solidarity with Ukraine in its fight for freedom.

As part of the event, the Blue/Yellow fundraising campaign for Ukraine, titled "Greetings from Lithuania," concluded under the patronage of former Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaitė. This initiative, which united the hearts of thousands, raised over €331,000, which will be used to purchase more than 662 Lithuanian-made drones for Ukraine’s defenders.

This significant event was made even more special by the presence of notable figures, including former Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaitė, the first Chairman of the restored Seimas of independent Lithuania, Professor Vytautas Landsbergis, Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė, Minister of Defense Laurynas Kasčiūnas, and the head of the Blue/Yellow foundation, Jonas Ohman. Their speeches were filled with determination to support Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of unity in the shared fight for freedom. Ukraine’s Ambassador to Lithuania, Petro Beshta, also attended the event.

The evening culminated in a drone show that illuminated the Vilnius sky with symbols of Lithuania and Ukraine. Light formations of the Columns of Gediminas, one of Lithuania’s most iconic symbols, and Tryzub appeared in the sky. These symbols represent centuries of struggle for independence, courage, and the will for freedom, uniting our nations even in the darkest times.

Photo: Lietuvos Respublikos Vyriausybė