“Glory to Ukraine” during Eurovision broadcast

It took place as spokespersons of participating countries were announcing voting results. The contest’s presenters greeted the Lithuanian spokesperson in Lithuanian. Eglė Daugėlaitė, for her part, responded she wouldn’t forget to say “Glory to Ukraine”.

The Kyiv audience burst into applause and responded “Glory to heroes”. Ihor Zhdanov, Ukraine’s minister of youth and sport, posted the video on his Facebook page. He thanked Lithuanian friends and noted he appreciated their support, which has acquired a new meaning in the light of the military and diplomatic conflict with Russia.

The slogan “Glory to Ukraine! Glory to heroes!” was first used by Ukrainian patriots in the early 20th century in the Ukrainian People’s Republic. Later, it became popular among Ukrainian liberation forces who struggled against the Nazi and communist occupation in World War II. The greeting became relevant again after the Revolution of Dignity in 2013-2014 and the beginning of the military conflict with Russia amid Ukraine’s intensified fight for independence and the liberation of the Russian-occupied territories.