Skip to Content
Photo Essay

‘Putin = Devil:’ Hundreds of Anti-Russia Activists Protest In Support of Ukraine In L.A. (Breaking)

On Thursday afternoon, hundreds of members of L.A.’s Ukrainian community and activists rallied outside the United States federal building in Westwood, standing in support of their home nation of Ukraine following Russia’s invasion early Thursday morning. 

Protestors held signs with handpainted messages saying, “Stand with Ukraine,” “Russia go home,” and “I’m ashamed that I’m Russian, stand with Ukraine.'' 

Maksim Ksenjak, who was present, told L.A. TACO, “Putin perceives the former Soviet space as still something that belongs to him.” Ksenjak has been living in the United States for 25 years but his parents and grandparents still reside in Ukraine. 

“For Ukraine, it’s a war for survival…We are headstrong and passionate people, if we see something wrong we will be fighting together. If we can have an opportunity to fight to make our lives better—we will.” 

Protestors in attendance weren’t just from the Los Angeles area, Emily Kuchurivski drove in from Riverside, California. “We’ve been on the phone with cousins, grandparents, family members back home and it just really hits close to home,” said Kuchurivski. “We recognize the people from our country are mourning and we want to stand in support with them and the people of Ukraine.” 

All photos by Mike Ojo for L.A. TACO. 

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from L.A. TACO

How the Old L.A. Zoo Was Turned Into Police Academy 2’s Punk Hideout, 40 Years Ago

A large portion of Police Academy 2 was filmed in and around the Toy District, as well as bits of Skid Row and the Fashion District. But it was our Old Zoo that enjoyed the most screen-time.

March 27, 2025

Villa’s Tacos Opens Taquería #3 Specializing In ‘L.A.-Baja-Style’ Fish Tacos In Highland Park

The three-time TACO MADNESS champion, proudly born and raised in Highland Park, took over the beloved former location of Tacos Estrella, where he grew up eating. More than 3,000 loyal customers came out to the the grand opening, happily waiting hours to try his fish, shrimp, octopus tacos, and even a special "Mar y Tierra" taco with A5 Wagyu.

March 26, 2025

The 11 Best Taquerías Near Dodger Stadium

Here's where to go for some of L.A.'s best tacos. Whether before or after the game or whether they win or lose. Go blue!

See all posts