"Peace for Ukraine" banners are being installed throughout downtown to demonstrate Springfield's friendship with Ukraine. The banners also feature a vibrant sunflower, the national flower.
Delegations of Ukrainians have visited Springfield over many years through a collaboration between the Springfield Commission on International Visitors and the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation. Typically, five.
Mayor of Melitopol, Ukraine, who was allegedly kidnapped by armed Russian soldiers Friday, was part of a delegation that visited Springfield in 2018.