By Edward Baran

(Reuters) – Away from fighting in Ukraine on Saturday, Russian and Ukrainian dancers rubbed shoulders at London’s charity event. This brought together some of the most prominent dancers in the world to help with humanitarian aid in war-torn Eastern Europe.

The gala’s 20 participants received thunderous applause at London Coliseum’s theatre for their graceful and glowing bodies.

We are so grateful for the love and support of our family back in Ukraine. We could not just sit idly at our homes and only watch news. Instead, we had to get involved,” Ivan Putrov from Ukraine, who organized the event along with Alina Kojocaru of Romania, said to Reuters.

Russia invaded Ukraine Feb. 24, in a strike Moscow describes as a “special operation” meant to demilitarize its neighbor.

U.N. rights officer has reported that at least 847 civilians were dead and more than 1,399 had been wounded in Ukraine since Friday. Over 3.3 million people have fled Ukraine via its west border. Around 2 million are still displaced within the country.

Some members of the public were covered in the Ukrainian flag, while others were dressed up in their country’s national costumes. There was also a stage lit with shades of yellow-blue by dancers representing many other countries, including Brazil, Italy, Britain, and Brazil.

Natalia Osipova, Russia and Katja Khaniukova Ukraine were two of the participants. The event attracted dancers from Argentina, France, Japan, Japan, and the United States.

Putrov stated that many artists approached us asking to be part of this project. “It is inspiring how overwhelming the support has been from the people. But we need more support for Ukraine and more support from other governments around the globe.”

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