This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
In May 2025, a new national symbol — appeared in Ukraine Flag of Hope. This is a black and white flag dedicated to Ukrainian military and civilian prisoners, as well as those who are considered missing. It is created as an act of honor, support and reminder of those who have not yet returned home.
How the initiative came about
The idea to introduce Flag of Hope belongs Serhiy Volynskyi, to the commander of the 36th separate marine infantry brigade, who himself was in Russian captivity after the defense of Mariupol. In August 2024, he published a petition to the President of Ukraine asking for an official symbol to remember the prisoners.
The petition quickly received widespread support: the required 25,000 votes were collected in less than four days. This was evidence that the topic is extremely important and painful for Ukrainian society.
Flag symbolism
The flag consists of two horizontal stripes: white on top and black on the bottom.
- White stripe symbolizes hope, freedom, faith in return.
- Black stripe represents pain, captivity, losses and obscurity.
This contrast conveys a state of expectation: between light and darkness, between life and uncertainty. According to the plan, the flag is set lower than the national flag and should remain on the flagpole until all Ukrainian prisoners are released.
Geography of implementation
The first official «Flag of Hope» was raised May 8, 2025 in Zaporizhzhia, near the veteran hub «Veteran PRO». Relatives of prisoners of war and missing persons, as well as volunteers and representatives of veteran organizations took part in the ceremony. Participants held portraits of their loved ones, demanded their release, and drew public attention to the subject of captivity.
Soon, similar actions began to take place in other cities. In particular, in the village Pluzhne in Khmelnytskyi region local residents sewed the flag themselves after the petition appeared. The sisters of the missing soldier handed him over to their mother, who prayed with him every Sunday in the temple. There, the flag became a permanent symbol on the local square.
Public importance
Flag of Hope <TAG1> is not only a visible sign of honor, but also a form of solidarity with those who still cannot speak for themselves. It is an initiative bringing together families of captives, veteran communities and concerned citizens.
Unlike state attributes, this flag originated from below — as a societal reaction to prolonged and often silenced pain. His presence in the public space serves as a constant reminder that the war continues not only at the front, but also in the shadow of — where they wait and remain silent.
Flag of Hope <TAG1> is a simple but deep symbol. It does not replace action, but it strengthens the voices of those who are waiting. Until the last Ukrainian is released from captivity —, this flag will fly on Ukrainian soil. And will remind that memory, solidarity and hope — is also a form of resistance.
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