Marking the Third Anniversary of Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine
The Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro, the Embassy of Ukraine, and the Faculty of Montenegrin Language and Literature opened the photo exhibition Lost Childhood at the Faculty in Cetinje, commemorating three years since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The exhibition presents emotional testimonies about Ukrainian children from diverse backgrounds who lost their lives as a result of Russia’s aggression.
The exhibition was inaugurated by EU Ambassador to Montenegro Johann Sattler, Ukrainian Ambassador Oleh Gerasimenko, and the Faculty’s Dean, Aleksandar Radoman at the opening ceremony.
Ambassador Sattler said: “This poignant testimony of the lost childhoods of Ukrainian children urges us not to look away, but to honour these young lives by redoubling our commitment to justice, peace, and accountability. Here in Cetinje, at the heart of Montenegrin history and culture, this exhibition reaffirms our shared values of freedom, dignity, and a European future.” The EU Ambassador also recalled the steadfast support and solidarity that the people of Cetinje have consistently shown for Ukraine.
At the opening ceremony, Ukrainian Ambassador Oleh Gerasimenko said the exhibition bears witness to the extraordinary courage and suffering of Ukrainian children, who have endured unimaginable pain and loss as a result of Russia’s war of aggression. “Every photograph is a silent testament to the tragedy experienced by our children and a symbol of their resilience and hope. These images remind us that our struggle is not merely about territory or political priorities but, above all, about life, about childhood, and about every child’s right to a peaceful and happy future,” said Ambassador Gerasimenko.
The Faculty’s Dean, Aleksandar Radoman, recalled that in the past three years the flag of Ukraine has flown over the Faculty as a symbol of resistance against imperialism and aggression. “Every innocent life lost is a scar on the face of our continent. FCJK stands firmly with the Ukrainian people, who today, in the heart of Europe, are defending the values of democracy, freedom, and independence – standing against anti-liberal and expansionist ideologies that seek to destroy the European way of life and thinking. In today’s context, more than ever before, it is crucial to say that Ukraine must not be left alone and that we must all stand together with the brave Ukrainian people as they fight for their survival.”
During his first official visit to Montenegro’s old royal capital, Ambassador Sattler met with the Mayor of Cetinje, Nikola Đurašković, to discuss opportunities for the city’s development. He was also hosted by the Minister of Culture, Tamara Vujović, with whom he visited key cultural institutions and landmarks. In addition, the EU Ambassador visited EU-funded projects, and engaged with representatives of environmental institutions and civil society organisations.