Ukraine’s traditional white embroidered shirt, called a vyshyvanka, is a symbol of solidarity with Ukraine and Ukrainian culture — even more so since Russia invaded the country on Feb. 24.
On Vyshyvanka Day this year, the Ukrainian traditional shirt has taken center stage online once again, as messages and pictures of solidarity are pouring in, from humans and animals alike.
“Today I celebrate the vibrant and rich Ukrainian culture by wearing a Vyshyvanka,” said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on her official Twitter account on Thursday, along a picture showing her wearing a vyshyvanka. “Every 3rd Thursday of May, people wear this traditional cloth as an expression of unity and national identity. In these difficult times, we stand with our Ukrainian friends.”
“Today, on #VyshyvankaDay, I join Ukrainians around the world in their tradition to wear a #vyshyvanka. Ukrainians’ fight for freedom is our fight too,” said European Parliament President Roberta Metsola on her official Twitter feed as well.
UNICEF Ukraine, along with a picture showing two Ukrainian newborn twins, also marked the day, writing “Happy #VyshyvankaDay from these two cuties born in #Kharkiv 💙#ForEveryChild, a peaceful and healthy life.”
Professional boxer Wladimir Klitschko and his brother, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, posed on social media wearing their vyshyvankas.
“Happy Vyshyvanka Day, friends!” said Wladimir. “Today an embroidered shirt is one of the symbols of our people heroic fight for freedom. It’s also an element of recognition of the Ukrainians in the world. I’m always proud to be Ukrainian! And especially today. Glory to Ukraine! Glory to its heroes!”
The Ukrainian Emergency Services featured a picture of one of its most dedicated staffers, the dog Patron, wearing a vyshyvanka too.
“Maintaining traditions, today our Patron changed his ‘armor’ to an embroidered shirt! Looks cool, what do you think?” the service said on its official Twitter account Thursday.
