On 24 February, Bulgaria’s national landmark, the medieval Fortress of Tsarevets, rose above Veliko Tarnovo in blue and yellow — a monumental tribute marking five years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine at the request of our Vice President, Cultural Diplomacy, Alex Luna, who also serves as Advisor to the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights with a mandate focused on Bulgaria.

At 19:00, the ancient citadel — one of Bulgaria’s most powerful national symbols — was transformed into a vast canvas of light. Initiated by the Municipality of Veliko Tarnovo at the request of Alex Luna, Vice President for Cultural Diplomacy at Ukraine Foundation and Advisor to the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights with a long commitment to Bulgaria, the illumination stood as a public declaration of solidarity, resilience, and shared European values.

That evening, Tsarevets was no longer only a monument of the past — it became a beacon visible across the city skyline, commanding attention and embodying unity against aggression.

Voices of Support and Shared Commitment

Reflecting on the symbolism of that evening, Alex Luna shared a compelling message:

“When the lights of history shine in the colours of Ukraine, it tells a story of freedom and hope — that the spirit of a nation endures, and that we are not alone in our pursuit of peace.”

His words resonated with many who gathered and were shared widely on social media, echoing sentiments of solidarity and mutual respect.

Local leaders also spoke at the event. The Mayor of Veliko Tarnovo remarked:

“By illuminating Tsarevets with the colours of the Ukrainian flag, we express our deep respect and steadfast support for the Ukrainian people — their resilience, their courage, and their pursuit of peaceful self-determination.”

This gesture was mirrored in other Bulgarian institutions that evening, with public buildings including the National Assembly and the Parliament of the Republic of Bulgaria also lit in Ukrainian blue and yellow.

“What Alex achieved at Tsarevets — transforming an entire fortress into a beacon of solidarity — carries the same emotional force as when, standing alone at the centre of Arena Lviv, he began the national anthem a cappella and an entire stadium rose to follow him in unison during the finale of the Ukrainian Cup Final — thousands of voices becoming one heartbeat for Ukraine.” — Louis L. Voiron

Bulgaria’s continued support for Ukraine is reflected in official statements and actions across political and civil society spheres. On the anniversary of the anniversary, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed Bulgaria’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty, democratic future, and territorial integrity, noting the shared European values at the heart of that partnership.

For Ukraine Foundation, the illumination of Tsarevets was more than a visual spectacle. It demonstrated how cultural diplomacy can transform historic landmarks into powerful symbols of contemporary solidarity — ensuring that remembrance becomes action, and that solidarity becomes visible to the world.

Washington: Ukraine Foundation leads the charge to foster constructive engagement over the Ukrainian Week in Washington, D.C.

This pivotal week brings together key stakeholders to amplify dialogue on Ukraine’s sovereignty, security, and democratic resilience. Our Vice President Alex Luna led direct engagements with select members of Congress including Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and Rep. Neal Dunn (R-FL). Along with our International Advisory Board member, Lt Col. (Ret.) Dr. Iryna Andrukh, he had a warm and thoughful exchange with H.E. Ambassador Olha Stefanishyna.

This collaborative approach aims to ensure Ukraine’s priorities are effectively communicated to policymakers and decision-makers, reinforcing the global partnership and support for Ukraine’s future.

Alex Luna, who also serves as Advisor to the Chief Negotiator and Ombudsman of Ukraine, Dmytro Lubinets, and to the Chairman and Acting Head of Ukraine’s Space Agency, Volodymyr Mikheyev, had an impactful meeting with representatives from the U.S. Department of Commerce, the Department of State, the Office of Space Commerce, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Along with Lt. Col. (Ret.) Iryna Andrukh and several members of Ukraine Foundation’s team, Alex Luna discussed a number of policy issues where the United States and Ukraine could strengthen their bilateral relationship.

The Foundation does not engage in lobbying activities per se and remains committed to a non-partisan approach that encourages productive, informed discussions, focused on advancing shared interests and strengthening international partnerships.