BELGRADE, Serbia 

Hundreds gathered Saturday in the Serbian capital of Belgrade for a pro-Ukraine march to mark a second full year of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Demonstrators gathered in Pionirski Park and marched to the main Republic Square.

"End war, end evil" and "Ukraine will win" banners were carried by protesters along with Ukrainian flags.

The crowd observed a minute of silence for those killed in Ukraine after arriving at the square.

Ukraine's Ambassador to Belgrade, Volodimir Tolkac, said the second year of the war is commemorated with tears.

"We commemorate this anniversary with tears because we defend our independence. Russia does not see Ukraine as an independent state. We have no choice, we have to defend our state and democratic principles,'' said Tolkac.

He added that Ukraine is protecting all of Europe against the "Russian world."

The march was organized by the Ukrainian Embassy.

Russia launched its "special military operation" on Ukraine exactly two years ago on Feb. 24, 2022.​​​​​​​