Late last month, the historic Oceana Theater in Brighton Beach hosted the 2025 New York Freedom Gala for Ukraine, a benefit concert marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion.
The Feb. 21 benefit concert, organized by the Heart & Valor Foundation and Freedom FM, stood as a powerful testament to resilience, remembrance and hope.
The night opened with an exclusive VIP reception, where special guests and dignitaries gathered in support of the cause. A gallery showcased artwork by children of Ukraine, with proceeds benefiting injured Ukrainian children.
A portrait of U.S. Capt. Andrew L. Webber, who was killed in action, was later presented to his mother.
Assembly Member Michael Novakhov, one of the event’s hosts, welcomed attendees, stressing the urgency and significance of the occasion. He spoke passionately about the ongoing war and the need for continued solidarity with Ukraine.
Joining him on stage were co-hosts Liza Chubenko, a Ukrainian activist and journalist, and Olena Elizarova, Mrs. Ukraine and the country’s representative at Mrs. World 2024. Their words resonated with the audience, many of whom have been personally affected by the war.
Eli Zhadanov, head of the Heart and Valor Foundation, also addressed the crowd, thanking them for their unwavering support and dedication to the Ukrainian cause.
The event drew more than 1,300 guests, including political figures, international artists, and humanitarians. Novakhov emphasized the urgency of the gathering.
“It’s hard to believe this devastating war has lasted three years,” he said. “Tonight, we gather not just to enjoy world-class performances, but to reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine and its people.”
The night featured a dynamic lineup of musical and dance performances, with renowned artists from around the world lending their talents to the cause.
Highlights included Mika Newton, a Grammy and MTV pop-rock star and Eurovision finalist; Oksana Maslova and Yuval Cohen, principal dancers from the Philadelphia Ballet; Victoria Vennikova, an Honored Artist of Ukraine and the voice of Kharkiv; internationally acclaimed rock star Nargiz; Ukrainian opera singer Ludmila Fesenko; and Georgian opera singer Gocha Abuladze, whose rendition of “Figaro” mesmerized the audience. Master violinist Andy Didorenko and pianist Yuliya Basis delivered a stirring duet, while a surprise theatrical performance by actors from Svitanok captivated the crowd.
The evening was more than just entertainment — it was a time for reflection and remembrance. A special memorial tribute honored Ukrainian artists who have died since the invasion, along with Russian-Jewish pianist Pavel Kushnir, who was killed in a Russian prison.
One of the night’s most poignant moments was the tribute to U.S. Army veteran Capt. Andrew L. Webber, who died heroically in Ukraine in 2023. His mother, Karla Webber, took the stage to share his extraordinary story.
“Andrew believed that Ukraine’s fight was a fight for freedom everywhere,” he said. “He sacrificed his life, giving his American-made protective gear to a young Ukrainian soldier. He was a leader, a mentor, a protector.”
After her heartfelt speech, she was presented with the Heart & Valor Award, a citation from Assembly Member Novakhov’s office, and a striking portrait of her son, painted by artist TATY. The portrait had been displayed in the theater lobby.
The event also highlighted Ukraine’s ongoing struggles, including a show of solidarity with the people of Georgia in their fight for democracy and a focus on aiding Ukrainian children through programs like the Oplich Hub in Zaporizhzhia.
International humanitarian and journalist Mitzi Perdue, known for her unwavering support for Ukraine, was also honored. Perdue, whose father founded Sheraton Hotels and whose late husband, Frank Perdue, built the famous poultry empire, has been a dedicated advocate for the cause. She auctioned her Atocha emerald engagement ring for $1.2 million to support Ukrainian initiatives and spoke of her deep admiration for the Ukrainian people.
“Even in the darkest times, a small light can make a difference,” Perdue said. “Tonight, we come together to shine that light.”
As the night drew to a close, applause filled the Oceana Theater — not just for the performers, but for the unwavering spirit of a nation and its supporters. In the words of Andrew Webber’s daughter, shared in her poem: “Let the wind guide you to the end. Walk day and night. Walk through the deep, deep snow…”
The Heart & Valor Foundation, founded in March 2022, was created by everyday Americans in response to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February, 2022.
Days later, on Feb. 24, officials — including Novakhov — gathered at Bowling Green in Downtown Manhattan to mark the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion with a solemn flag-raising ceremony, during which both the American and Ukrainian flags were hoisted in a display of unity and continued support for Ukraine
Honored Ukrainian artist Viktoria Vennikova, a native of Kharkiv, performed a selection of patriotic songs, including “Chervona Kalyna,” a popular anthem of resistance against Russian aggression. As the American flag was raised, Vennikova sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” followed by the Ukrainian national anthem as the blue and yellow flag was hoisted. Attendees stood in solemn tribute, observing a moment of silence before joining in the anthem.
Novakhov, who represents the southern Brooklyn enclave known as “Little Odessa,” spoke directly to Trump, urging him to recognize Russia as the aggressor.
“Mr. President, I voted three times for you,” he said at the flag-raising. “I am a Republican, but Mr. President, Putin is the dictator, not Zelenskyy. Russia started the war, not Ukraine.”
The flag-raising took place just four days before a highly contentious meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance on Feb. 28. In that meeting, held in the Oval Office, discussions deteriorated into a shouting match, resulting in the abrupt cancellation of a planned minerals agreement and a significant strain in U.S.-Ukraine relations.
