Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Photo courtesy of Anadolu.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion and reaffirmed his commitment to achieving peace and justice.
He said the milestone reflects the courage, determination, and sacrifices of millions of Ukrainians who have defended their country since the conflict began in February 2022.
Zelenskyy said the nation has preserved its sovereignty and independence despite years of military pressure.
He stressed that Ukraine will continue to pursue a fair and lasting resolution to the conflict.
Rustem Umerov, secretary of Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council, said advances in the defense sector are reshaping the battlefield and strengthening the country’s capabilities.
Umerov added that Ukraine seeks a practical and sustainable peace, focused on measurable outcomes rather than symbolic gestures.
Kyiv hosted a number of international dignitaries for the anniversary, including European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and the prime ministers of several Nordic and Baltic nations. Leaders from Finland, Lithuania, and Poland also attended.
Russian officials defended their military actions as necessary for civilian protection in Donbas and cited concerns about NATO expansion and Ukraine’s prior nuclear ambitions, according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova.
