Noise for Ukraine: Prague concert marks three years since Russian invasion

Prague will host a protest concert titled Noise for Ukraine outside the Russian Embassy on Monday, Feb. 24, marking three years of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The event is organized by United Islands and Metronome Prague, two of the Czech capital's largest annual music festivals.

The concert will begin at 5 p.m. on Ukrajinských Hrdinů Street, and promises a loud and resolute expression of support for Ukraine. The event will also feature speeches and messages of solidarity from political leaders, diplomatic representatives, and cultural organizations.

The concert will feature a diverse lineup of artists, and aims to both highlight continued opposition to Russia's aggression and honor the resilience of the Ukrainian people. The musical program includes performances by Ukrainian musicians Nazar Ivanyshyn and Igor Yeromichev, and Czech bands such as Už jsme doma, Zooblasters, and Circus Problem.

The event is one of several initiatives taking place across Prague that marks the ongoing conflict and shows continued support for the Ukrainian people. While it will provide an evening of music and solidarity, the concert is also part of a broader civic and cultural response to Russia's ongoing invasion.

The festival’s organizers see Noise for Ukraine not only as an act of protest but also as a message of unwavering support for Ukraine's fight for freedom. The concert is expected to draw a crowd of passionate attendees, all united in their opposition to Russia's war and their commitment to Ukrainian sovereignty.

The performance schedule includes local favorites and Ukrainian stars, with bands like Obrben and Vladimir 518 & Mike T set to provide musical acts that will echo through the streets of Prague.

The United Islands and Metronome Prague festivals are two of the largest annual festivals in Prague. This year's United Islands will showcase world music acts such as Germany’s Cloudy June from May 1-3, while Metronome Prague will bring international headliners like Alanis Morissette and Rag’n’Bone Man to the Czech capital from June 19-21.

As the war enters its fourth year, the Czech government remains firmly committed to supporting Ukraine. In early February, Czech President Petr Pavel expanded protections for Ukrainian refugees, offering them a continued safe haven in the country.

This includes extending temporary protections through March 2025 and introducing new legislation that limits access to citizenship for Russian nationals unless they renounce their citizenship.

Further support is coming in the form of a return center in Prague, scheduled to open by June. This initiative is designed to assist Ukrainian refugees who wish to return home for post-war reconstruction, with a focus on providing legal, logistical, and financial support for those looking to contribute to rebuilding their country.