In Pictures: Ukraine Protests And Placards At The Russian Embassy

M@
By M@ Last edited 34 months ago

Last Updated 28 February 2022

In Pictures: Ukraine Protests And Placards At The Russian Embassy

The images in this article contain strong language.

The Russian Embassy on Bayswater Road has become a focus for protest, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The boundary wall is alive with chalk outcry. Any brick that doesn't carry a "F*ck Putin" or similar has been coloured blue or yellow. Banners and balloons and everywhere.

Needless to say, a strong police presence stands guard. The entire pavement is cordoned off, and pedestrians are forced into the road. Over on the other side, the Guyana High Commission has become a second, unlikely ground for demonstration. Not because Guyana plays any particular role in this conflict, merely because it finds itself opposite the Russian Embassy with plenty of pavement space.

While Putin is the focus of everyone's anger, another Vladimir has become a local symbol. A half mile west of the Russian Embassy stands the statue of Ukrainian ruler-saint, Vladimir I. He's surrounded by a bed of flags, protest statements, candles and flowers.

The nearby Ukrainian Embassy also carries the flowers, balloons and messages of dozens of well-wishers.