Milwaukee's iconic Hoan Bridge goes blue and gold for Ukraine

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) --- Hoan Bridge is shining bright, representing the colors of the Ukrainian flag. 

Friday, a ceremony was held as Milwaukee stands in solidarity with Ukraine amid Russia's invasion of the country this week. Dozens showed up to see the bridge turn blue and gold. Many in attendance were local members of Milwaukee's Ukrainian community.

Although thousands of miles away, Michael Popowycz says the heartbreak of knowing what's happening in Ukraine is a heavy burden.

"I still have shivers when I see the videos and knowing that what they're going through there, my parents went through the same thing in World War II," said Popowycz.

Popowycz says he's overjoyed to see so much support for his home country right in Milwaukee. "To see generations and the newest immigrants that are here along with us old ones, it’s a nice gathering," he said.

Acting Milwaukee Mayor Cavailer Johnson was among those who came to watch the Hoan Bridge light up for Ukraine. "It is horrible to see an entirely unnecessary war underway there," said Johnson.

Mayor Johnson says Russia's invasion of Ukraine is unjust. "As Americans, democracy is at the core of our principals, its at the core of our beliefs. It makes us who we are so it's extremely distressing to see Russia ignore international law and the rights of a free Ukraine," he said.

Hoan Bridge will be lit in Ukraine's colors for the remainder of the weekend.