U2 share reflections on Ukraine's Independence Day

Today is Ukraine's Independence Day – but it also marks six months since the Russian invasion of the country began. U2 are among those sharing their thoughts and reflections today, with a post on social media that considers the role of creatives during times of war and conflict.

In the post, they re-share Bono's reading of 'My Friendly Epistle' by Taras Shevchenko, the renowned Ukrainian poet.

"Six months ago to the day, when Putin’s army invaded Ukraine, Edge and myself recorded these words from the father of Ukrainian literature, Taras Shevchenko," Bono writes. "They could have been written for this moment.

"Three months ago, Edge and I stood in front of a bronze statue of the same poet in Borodyanka," he continues. "A journalist asked Edge if there's a role for musicians and writers in this kind of situation.

"‘Well,’ he replied, looking up to the statue 'The Russian empire seemed to think so. Isn’t that a bullet hole in the poet’s head?'

"Today is the 31st anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence, and we stand with them," U2 conclude.

U2 have been outspoken in their support of Ukraine – with Bono and The Edge travelling to the country back in May, and performing a special concert in a metro station in Kyiv, after being invited to the country personally by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

You can read U2's full statement, and listen to Bono's reading of My Friendly Epistle', below:

Six months ago to the day, when Putin’s army invaded Ukraine, Edge and myself recorded these words from the father of Ukrainian literature, Taras Shevchenko.
They could have been written for this moment.
(1/3) https://t.co/RlhOe6Lle0

— U2 (@U2) August 24, 2022