How Ukraine’s ‘Yellow Ribbon’ Activists Keep Resistance Alive Under Russian Occupation

This April marks the third anniversary of the ‘Yellow Ribbon’ movement, a resistance group formed by Ukrainians living under occupation.

Operating in regions such as Luhansk and Crimea, the movement continues to carry out acts of defiance against Russian forces while waiting for the return of Ukrainian control.

The coordinator of the movement, whose identity remains undisclosed for security reasons, spoke to Radio NV about the ongoing efforts and the risks faced by these brave activists.

“The Yellow Ribbon movement is the voice of Ukrainians in occupation, trying to share their thoughts and beliefs despite the oppressive information bubble created by the occupiers and the constantly increasing repressive measures,” said the coordinator. “We are here to show the world that we have not given up, and we are not staying silent. Every yellow ribbon we hang is a small but powerful act of defiance.”

The movement has been highly successful in carrying out thousands of actions across occupied regions, from large-scale protests in cities like Kherson and Melitopol to smaller-scale operations in places like Donetsk and Mariupol.

These actions often involve displaying yellow ribbons or other symbols of Ukrainian identity, showing the world that Ukrainians in occupied territories are not giving up and are still resisting through non-violent means.

“Our goal is simple — to resist the occupiers without violence, using the power of symbols and unity,” the coordinator added. “In a way, the yellow ribbon has become a silent shout, telling our occupiers and the world that we will not be erased, that our hearts beat for Ukraine.”

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One of the movement’s major challenges is dealing with the extreme consequences for any form of protest, with the Russian authorities equating the display of yellow ribbons with terrorism and extremism, sometimes leading to lengthy prison sentences.

In response, the Yellow Ribbon movement emphasizes safety, teaching activists how to avoid detection, maintain anonymity, and protect themselves from government reprisals.

“We’ve taught ourselves how to stay invisible in the crowd, how to fight for our country without putting our lives on the line unnecessarily,” said a member of the movement, who preferred to remain anonymous. “Each ribbon we place is a silent declaration — we are still here, we are still Ukrainians.”

The movement remains anonymous, with activists not knowing each other’s identities. This level of secrecy ensures the safety of those involved, particularly since many of them are young, having grown up in the occupied territories but still choosing to take a stand against the invaders.

Despite the grave risks, the Yellow Ribbon movement has continued to grow. It has become a powerful symbol of non-violent resistance, bringing together tens of thousands of Ukrainians committed to fighting back against the occupation and preparing for eventual liberation.

“Our struggle is not just about survival; it’s about sending a message. We are not forgotten, and we are not afraid,” the coordinator concluded. “Our fight is far from over, but every day we stand together, the hope of liberation grows stronger.”

Previously, it was reported that Atesh partisan movement agents have carried out a sabotage operation in temporarily occupied Melitopol in the Zaporizhzhia region, destroying a relay cabinet.

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