Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion with a defiant message, declaring that Russian leader Vladimir Putin has failed to achieve his primary war objectives and has not broken the Ukrainian people .
In a video address released on February 24, 2026, Zelensky reflected on Russia’s initial goal of a swift three-day campaign to capture Kyiv, stating that the subsequent four years of resistance speak volumes about Ukraine’s resolve .
“Putin has not achieved his goals. He did not break the Ukrainians. He did not win this war. We have preserved Ukraine, and we will do everything to achieve peace — and to ensure there is justice,” Zelensky said in his address .
The Ukrainian leader emphasized that any peace agreement must be acceptable to the Ukrainian people, not simply signed behind closed doors . He also extended an invitation to U.S. President Donald Trump to visit Kyiv, stating that only by witnessing Ukraine’s struggle firsthand could one truly understand the war .
European Leaders Rally in Kyiv
Several European leaders traveled to Kyiv to demonstrate solidarity on the anniversary. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was in the Ukrainian capital, reaffirming that Europe stands “unwaveringly with Ukraine, financially, militarily, and through this harsh winter” . She called for “peace on Ukraine’s terms” .
Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, and other senior officials also joined the commemorations . French President Emmanuel Macron described the war as a “triple failure for Russia: military, economic, and strategic,” noting that the conflict had strengthened NATO and united Europe .
Ongoing Challenges and Diplomatic Stalemate
Despite the show of support, the war continues to exact a heavy toll. The cost of post-war reconstruction is now estimated at approximately $588 billion over the next decade, according to a joint World Bank, EU, and UN report .
Diplomatic efforts, including U.S.-mediated talks in Geneva in January and February 2026, have failed to produce a breakthrough. The core dispute remains territorial: Russia occupies about 20 percent of Ukraine and demands full control of the eastern Donetsk region, a condition Ukraine has rejected without robust security guarantees from allies .
Moscow has intensified attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure during winter, while Kyiv’s allies have imposed heavy sanctions on Russia, forcing it to redirect oil exports to Asian markets . However, Hungary’s opposition recently blocked an EU loan support package worth €90 billion and additional sanctions against Russia .
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Disclaimer: This report is based on multiple international news sources as cited. CDA News Nigeria does not independently verify claims made by foreign governments or officials.
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