President Volodymyr Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to resist Russian aggression as the country marked the fourth anniversary of the war that began with Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. In a speech delivered on Tuesday, Zelensky emphasized that the sacrifices made by the Ukrainian people would not be in vain, stating, “We cannot, we must not, give it away, forget it, betray it.”
The commemorations in Kyiv were overshadowed by divisions among key European allies. While there were hopes for a new sanctions package against Russia and a €90 billion loan for Ukraine, Hungary maintained its veto over both measures. Hungary, which has close ties with Moscow, along with Slovakia, accused Kyiv of obstructing Russian oil supplies through the Druzhba pipeline. Ukraine contends that it is working to repair the pipeline following a Russian strike the previous month.
International Dignitaries Attend Anniversary Ceremonies
Zelensky welcomed various dignitaries from Western Europe, including Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, for the anniversary ceremonies. However, unlike previous years, major Western leaders were notably absent. In his morning address, Zelensky asserted, “Putin has not achieved his goals. He has not broken the Ukrainian people. He has not won this war.” He extended an invitation to Donald Trump, the former President of the United States, urging him to visit Ukraine to witness the realities of the conflict firsthand.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with hundreds of thousands of soldiers from both sides reported killed or wounded. Additionally, Russian forces have killed tens of thousands of Ukrainian civilians and inflicted extensive damage on cities through persistent missile and drone strikes.
Ongoing peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, facilitated by the United States, appear to have stalled, primarily due to territorial disputes. Moscow insists that Ukraine must concede the final 20% of the eastern region of Donetsk, while Kyiv remains firm in its refusal to surrender territory that has seen extensive loss of life in defense.
Calls for Strong and Lasting Peace
Zelensky voiced the desire for “strong, dignified, lasting peace.” He urged peace negotiators not to undermine the years of struggle and sacrifice that Ukraine has endured. In his statements, he highlighted the importance of recognizing the dignity and courage displayed by the Ukrainian people throughout the conflict.
In a show of solidarity, French President Emmanuel Macron commented on social media platform X that Russia has paid a heavy price for minor territorial gains in Ukraine, suggesting that “one day, Russians will grasp the enormity of the crime committed in their name.” Similarly, Polish President Karol Nawrocki expressed concern over Russia’s aggression, stating that it poses a serious threat to European security, and commended the bravery of those fighting for freedom in Ukraine.
As the war continues, Ukraine remains resolute in its commitment to resist foreign aggression and uphold its sovereignty. The struggle for peace and territorial integrity remains at the forefront of Ukrainian leadership’s agenda, as they navigate a complex landscape of international politics and military engagements.
