Ukrainian Americans in NYC Call for Ceasefire Amidst Trump-Putin Summit

Ukrainian American Concerns

• 🇺🇦 Approximately 150,000 Ukrainian Americans reside in New York, with a significant community centered in the East Village.
• 😟 Many are watching the summit between Trump and Putin with skepticism, particularly due to the absence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Ongoing War and Personal Impact

• 💔 The war continues to rage in Ukraine, with Russia besieging civilian communities.
• 😥 Twin sisters Christina and Anna Obertos shared their experiences visiting family under constant bombardment, highlighting the pervasive fear of attacks.
• 🏠 Families live in fear, uncertain about when their city or building might be targeted.

Advocacy for Peace and Recovery

• 🕊️ Ukrainian New Yorkers gathered in the East Village to advocate for peace and a ceasefire.
• 🌍 The group is planning meetings in Washington to discuss restoring order and providing basic necessities like water, shelter, and food.

Frustration with Summit Dynamics

• 🗣️ There is frustration among Ukrainian Americans that decisions are being made without Ukraine's agreement.
• ⏳ They emphasize that the conflict with Russia has been ongoing for over a decade, dating back to the 2014 annexation of Crimea.
• 🌍 While watching the meetings over 4,000 miles away, there is little expectation of a major breakthrough, but rather a continuation of the grinding war.