Ukrainian band Ziferblat symbolizes resilience at Eurovision contest

Ukraine participates in the Eurovision Song Contest through its band Ziferblat, made up of twin brothers Daniil and Valentyn Leshchynskyi, along with drummer Fedir Khodakov. The contest took place after a tumultuous period for Ukraine, marked by Russia's full-scale invasion three years prior. The band performed their song 'Bird of Pray' with deep emotional lyrics reflecting themes of loss and resilience, resonating with the ongoing struggles of Ukrainians. Their performance aimed to bring awareness to their current situation and inspire hope among their compatriots. In a show of support, a gathering of Ukrainians assembled in Basel, Switzerland, wearing traditional embroidered shirts. They participated in cultural activities such as singing Ukrainian songs and enjoying borscht, showcasing unity and strength despite the hardships they face. This gathering highlights the communal effort to maintain cultural identity and solidarity during challenging times. Valentyn Leshchynskyi expressed the dual mission of the band: to excel in the contest and to remind Europe of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Furthermore, they are engaged in fundraising efforts to procure robotic de-mining systems to assist in restoring affected areas back home, which measures 3.5 times the size of Switzerland. Their desire to convey a message of hope through music is pivotal as they perform on a well-known international platform. The Eurovision contest has taken on a larger significance for Ukraine, transforming from a mere musical competition into a medium for expressing national resilience and raising awareness about the war. This year's event symbolizes a continuation of Ukraine's cultural presence in Europe, serving as a reminder of the country's resilience and the unwavering spirit of its people amidst adversity.