Kyiv marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion on Sunday, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asserting that Moscow has failed to achieve its initial war aims. The Kremlin, however, indicated it will continue military operations until its objectives are met, according to statements reported by CBS News and Reuters.
Zelenskyy, in a video address, stated that Russia had not “broken Ukrainians” or “won this war,” emphasizing Ukraine’s continued independence. He affirmed a commitment to securing a “strong, lasting peace,” contingent upon Ukrainian acceptance of any eventual agreement. Hundreds of thousands have died since the invasion began on February 24, 2022, marking the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II, according to CBS News.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov echoed the ongoing nature of the conflict, stating that Russia has not yet achieved all its goals in Ukraine. “The goals haven’t been fully achieved yet, which is why the military operation continues,” Peskov told reporters.
The anniversary was observed with events across Ukraine commemorating those killed in the conflict. Meanwhile, reports continue to emerge detailing the brutal realities of the war. The BBC reported on accounts from Russian soldiers alleging the execution of fellow troops by commanders for refusing orders, exposing the conditions within the Russian military.
Recent developments also highlight the ongoing impact on civilians. A Ukrainian drone attack on a Russian factory in the Smolensk region reportedly killed seven people, according to Russia’s Investigative Committee. Efforts to address the psychological toll of the war are also underway, with Ukrainian soldiers receiving scuba diving therapy to cope with trauma, as reported by the BBC.
International support for Ukraine remains visible, with leaders from Finland and Sweden visiting Kyiv to mark the anniversary. Zelenskyy recently urged European countries to deploy troops to the front line in the event of a ceasefire, to guard against renewed Russian aggression, according to CBS News. An all-female convoy is preparing to deliver vehicles to Ukraine next month, with at least 16 women transporting seven vehicles from Oxfordshire, according to the BBC.
The war has resulted in significant devastation and displacement, with Ukrainian refugees reflecting on their experiences and expressing hopes for a peaceful return home, as reported by the BBC. Coventry Cathedral held a vigil to mark the anniversary, demonstrating continued solidarity with the Ukrainian community.
The Associated Press documented the war’s impact through a series of photographs illustrating the suffering and resilience of Ukrainians, including scenes of funerals, damaged infrastructure, and civilians adapting to life amidst conflict. The conflict continues to reshape the post-Cold War security order, with no immediate resolution in sight.