On May 24, the streets of Vilnius will witness a powerful act of resilience and solidarity. Eight Ukrainian veterans — all of whom lost limbs in combat and now walk with prostheses — will take part in a symbolic 300-meter run alongside Lithuanian supporters.
The event, titled “Už jūsų ir mūsų laisvę” is initiated by the Central Project Management Agency (CPVA) in partnership with the If Vilnius Half Marathon.
It’s aim is to highlight the challenges faced by Ukrainian defenders who fought with russian aggressor. As thousands of them work to recover and rebuild their lives, Lithuania is responding with a major programme dedicated to strengthening Ukraine’s rehabilitation system.
“Lithuania is now leading a comprehensive Rehabilitation Programme, helping Ukrainian medical institutions across the country cope with an unprecedented flow of wounded military personnel and civilians — something the world hasn’t seen since World War II,” said Artūras Žarnovskis, Head of Lithuania’s Co-create Future of Ukraine programme.
“At this run, we want Ukrainian veterans — members of the UNBROKEN Foundation and former patients of the renowned UNBROKEN Center in Lviv, which Lithuania will expand — to be joined by the Lithuanian public, officials, military personnel, and civic leaders. It’s about walking and running together, and drawing attention to those who have shown extraordinary strength in the name of freedom and justice.”
The “Už jūsų ir mūsų laisvę” symbolic run with Ukrainian veterans will take place on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 15:30. It will start at Pilies Street heading to Gedimino Avenue, Vilnius. The run is open to the public — all supporters welcome.
“As the organisers of the event, our values are fully aligned with those of Ukraine and its people. That’s why this initiative, which draws even more attention to what’s happening so close to us, is incredibly important to us,” said Greta Briedytė, Head of Communications at VŠĮ Tarptautinis maratonas.
Offering even more support, a fundraising campaign is initiated within If Vilnius Half Marathon. It will raise funds for a 10-day rehabilitation camp in Lithuania, organized by Broliai aitvarai, offering Ukrainian defenders an important recovery in a safe and supportive environment.
Donations can be made while registering for the If Vilnius Half Marathon and through the official Broliai aitvarai webpage.
The run will be moderated by Gabrielius Liaudanskas-Svaras — founder and frontman of the hip-hop group G&G Sindikatas, a well-known public figure, and member of the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union.
“This is not about a show,” says Svaras. “It’s about presence. About standing next to people who stood for freedom and dignity. You don’t run with someone like these heroes, and walk away unchanged.”
Media representatives are invited to attend the run and post-run program. Interview opportunities with Ukrainian veterans, government officials, and cultural figures will be available on-site.
