Studio City, CA — On the evening of February 25, 2022, hundreds of impassioned demonstrators flooded the intersection of Laurel Canyon and Ventura Boulevards in Studio City, uniting in a fervent protest against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which had begun just one day earlier. The vibrant rally, pulsing with solidarity, saw Ukrainian Americans, Russian expatriates, and local residents brandishing Ukrainian flags and signs, chanting “Stop the War!” and calling for global action to halt the escalating conflict. Click here to see the video
The demonstration, kicking off around 6:00 p.m. at 12100 Ventura Boulevard in front of Chase Bank, was sparked by local Ukrainian and Russian community members reeling from news of Russia’s military assault. Over 300 protesters, according to LAPD estimates, filled the sidewalks with messages like “Stand with Ukraine,” “Putin Must Go,” and “Peace for Kyiv.” Emotional moments unfolded as some Russian participants publicly renounced their government’s actions—one protester burned a Russian flag, while another set fire to his passport, symbolizing rejection of Putin’s aggression.
“This isn’t just about Ukraine; it’s about humanity,” said Olena Kovalenko, a Ukrainian American organizer, her voice breaking as she addressed the crowd. “My family is in Kyiv, and we’re terrified.” The crowd’s energy surged with the Ukrainian anthem, punctuated by supportive honks from passing cars along Ventura Boulevard, a major artery in the San Fernando Valley.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Valley Bureau oversaw the event, ensuring it remained peaceful with no arrests or disruptions reported. While the protest briefly slowed traffic, demonstrators stayed on the sidewalks, maintaining order under CHP and LAPD supervision. Organizers demanded stronger U.S. and NATO sanctions against Russia and humanitarian aid for Ukraine, echoing similar rallies that day in Los Angeles’ Westwood and Hollywood neighborhoods.
As Studio City became a beacon of solidarity, the rally highlighted the personal stakes for Angelenos with ties to Ukraine. Organizers pledged ongoing activism, urging residents to support Ukraine through donations and advocacy.
