Today marks the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine – a war that’s claimed thousands of lives.

Newfoundland and Labrador threw open its doors to residents and families fleeing Ukraine and now has a Ukrainian community numbering in the thousands.

Sofia Dubyk says the invasion has had a devastating impact on her native Ukraine and a service at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist will today remember those lost.

She calls it a time of remembrance and an opportunity to come together.

The service will take place this afternoon from 2:00 to 2:45 at the Basilica.

Prime Minister Trudeau Reflects on Anniversary

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says Russian President Vladimir Putin unleashed “unspeakable violence and brutality that has left hundreds of thousands dead and forced millions to flee.”

He says Putin’s invasion of Ukraine is not only a violation of the country’s sovereignty and independence, but also of the basic principles of the rules-based international order.

He calls it “an assault on our common humanity; and an attack against freedom, democracy, and peace.

Prime Minister Trudeau says despite Russia’s unrelenting attacks, “Ukraine continues to demonstrate unwavering courage.”

Trudeau is in Kyiv today to mark the anniversary.