Utah Legislative Leaders, Governor Accept Ukrainian Flag, Reaffirm Support on Fourth Anniversary of Invasion

SALT LAKE CITY – On the fourth anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine, Utah legislative leaders and Gov. Spencer Cox accepted a flag from Ukraine’s Kharkiv Regional Council, reaffirming continued support and friendship with the Ukrainian people. “Four years after Russia’s full-scale invasion, Utah stands with the people of Ukraine in defending the God-given gift of liberty,” said Gov. Cox. “We remain committed to supporting them through this long and difficult fight as they rebuild and work toward a just and lasting peace.” “Soon after the war began, I visited Ukraine as part of a delegation and saw neighborhoods where homes and schools had been destroyed, with families sheltering underground,” said President J. Stuart Adams. “I also witnessed remarkable resilience, volunteers helping neighbors and communities rebuilding together. It reminded me of the values that define Utah: strong communities, service, and looking out for one another. Utahns have responded with compassion through humanitarian relief efforts. Utah stands with those defending their homes and supports efforts to achieve a lasting peace.” “Utah stands with our friends in Ukraine,” said Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz. “Ukrainians have courageously defended their nation, their sovereignty, and their freedom. We’re inspired by their courage, resilience, and patriotism.” The flag exchange comes eight months after supporters in Utah delivered a Utah state flag, signed by state and community leaders, to Kharkiv as a show of solidarity with residents enduring continued attacks and hardship. In 2022, the Utah Legislature unanimously passed H.C.R. 21, denouncing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and calling for a ceasefire and restored peace in Europe. “On the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Utah stands in continued solidarity and friendship with the people of Ukraine,” said Rep. Jordan Teuscher. “Ukraine is deeply personal to me. I served there as a missionary more than twenty years ago, my wife is from Ukraine, and we have many dear friends and family members still living there. I have seen firsthand both the devastation of this war and the remarkable resilience of the Ukrainian people. Even today, civilians are being killed almost daily. Russian bombs and drones continue to strike cities and critical infrastructure, leaving millions without heat, light, and water. We are honored to accept this flag from the Kharkiv Regional Council as a symbol of resilience and partnership. Utah will continue to stand with Ukraine as they defend their communities, rebuild their nation, and work toward a future defined by peace, freedom, and sovereignty.” “The people of Ukraine are not only fighting for their land, but also for the same values we cherish in Utah, such as liberty, dignity, and the right to determine their own future,” said Jonathan Freedman, Honorary Consul to Ukraine. “I am incredibly proud of state leaders, our business community, and Utah humanitarians who have made such a difference in Ukraine.” Despite ongoing attacks, the Kharkiv Regional Council has continued operating by passing legislation, managing budgets, and coordinating essential services while assisting displaced residents.