PITTSFIELD, Mass. — City Hall and other buildings downtown were lit up in blue and gold on Tuesday night, the colors of the flag of Ukraine. 
 
Mayor Linda Tyer said the lightings were an expression of solidarity with the "courageous men and women of Ukraine" who are currently under attack by the neighboring nation of Russia.
 
Russian forces began a large-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24 and is currently shelling its major cities. The United States and the European Union have placed sanctions on Russia and provided some help to Ukraine, but not troops. Ukraine is not a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. 

"For days, the eyes of the world have been transfixed to the atrocities inflicted upon the sovereign country of Ukraine and her people. These unjust acts of war reflect the very worst of humanity, leaving a trail of devastation that will reverberate long after the invasion is over," Tyer wrote. "At the same time, we bear witness to the indomitable strength, courage, and resolve of the Ukrainian people who refuse to give up their country without a fight. Their tenacious resolve stands as a glimmer of hope in the midst of unspeakable horror unfolding in real-time."
 
Blue and yellow also bathed the exteriors of 100 North St., Barrington Stage, the Colonial Theatre, Crawford Square, the Shipton Building, and Persip and Sotille parks.
 
The mayor said it was a spark of light that "symbolizes a hope that cannot be extinguished."