With a show in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, music stars from the Ukraine commemorated the war that had been raging in their homeland for almost 100 days and solicited donations for hospitals.
Around 15,000 spectators watched the donation marathon on site on Sunday evening, according to the organizers and the police. Ukrainian TV channels also broadcast the charity event live, and broadcasters from other countries also broadcast it.
Video messages from numerous international celebrities and politicians were displayed during the show, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The SPD politician assured the people of Russia’s attacked Ukraine of Germany’s solidarity.
“We stand by your side,” he said in English. “Your hearts and thoughts are with us – today as well as every day since Russia attacked your country.”
Together with friends and partners, Germany is providing financial support to ensure that the Ukrainian economy does not collapse, Scholz said. Germany is sending weapons, and almost 800,000 Ukrainians have found refuge here.
In addition, plans for post-war reconstruction are being made. “Because this war will end,” said Scholz. “We stand united – for Ukraine, for freedom, the rule of law and dignity. As European sisters and brothers.”
This year’s winners of the Eurovision Song Contest, the Kalush Orchestra, performed at the Brandenburg Gate and was acclaimed by the live audience. They performed their song “Stefania”, with which they won the 66th ESC in Turin two weeks ago.
Shortly before the performance, the musicians announced on Sunday that they had auctioned off their competition winner’s trophy in aid of their home country’s army.
