MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Mighty Lights Memphis, the organization that controls the lights on the Hernando-DeSoto Bridge downtown, announced via Twitter Sunday that the landmark bridge will light up the colors of the Ukrainian flag for the next two nights to show support for the nation currently defending itself from a Russian invasion.
Mighty Lights said they are joining other iconic landmarks around the world glowing royal blue and yellow in support of Ukraine.
"Under Putin, Russia has reclaimed the status of Evil Empire," Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland said. "We stand with the people of Ukraine and pray for peace."
Landmarks like the Empire State Building in New York and the Eifel Tower in Paris have already shown support for the embattled country by shining lights in their national colors.
Russian president Vladimir Putin launched what he called a "special military operation" in Ukraine on Wednesday, February 24.
U.S. officials believe the Russian government is "frustrated" by a lack of progress in Ukraine, adding that many in Russia are "shocked" by the fierce resistance of the Ukrainian armed forces.