Hundreds Attend San Francisco Protest of Ukraine Invasion

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Hundreds of people gathered at San Francisco's City Hall Thursday afternoon to protest Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The subdued protest began with the playing of the Ukraine national anthem. The mood of the people gathered is one of shock, according to Patch editor Gideon Rubin who was in the crowd.

"We understand that Ukraine is far away but everyone should care," one of the organizers told those assembled. "This affects everyone."

The “Solidarity with Ukraine” drew families carrying balloons and signs showing support for the people of Ukraine, and disgust for Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

Amid global condemnation, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, unleashing airstrikes on cities and military bases, launching more than 100 missiles, and sending troops and tanks from multiple directions in a move that could rewrite the world’s geopolitical landscape.

Ukraine’s government pleaded for help as civilians piled into trains and cars to flee.

President Joe Biden on Thursday announced severe sanctions against Russia.

"Putin is the aggressor. Putin chose this war. And now he and his country will bear the consequences," Biden said.

The San Francisco protest is one of many held across the country and around the world, including protests in Los Angeles and New York.

— The Associated Press contributed to this report