Ukrainian President's Video Address
On February 24, 2026, marking the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy released a video address. In it, he recounted pivotal events of the war, cities that have suffered, international support, and the losses Ukraine has endured over these 1462 days of aggression. This conflict has become the largest ground war in Europe since World War II.
Four years have passed since the full-scale invasion began on February 24, 2022. Russia's aggression against Ukraine has now spanned 12 years in total. According to the president's data as of February 24, 2026, the Russian Federation has lost approximately 1,261,420 personnel. In the war's initial days, Zelenskyy's first conversations with world leaders took place in a bunker on Bankova Street, where he received updates on the national situation and international backing.
Cities Scarred by the War
Zelenskyy also highlighted cities that have endured significant destruction, including:
- Bucha
- Irpin
- Borodianka
- Hostomel
- Kharkiv
- Mykolaiv
- Kremenchuk
- Kryvyi Rih
- Mariupol
- Odesa
- and many others.
He stressed that despite all hardships, Ukraine continues to fight for its independence. Acknowledging the support of international partners, the president cited the words of U.S. President Joe Biden:
“Volodymyr, there is a threat, you need to leave Ukraine urgently. We are ready to help with that.”
Joe Biden
To this, Zelenskyy responded: “Do you think I got on my knees? I just tied my boots – Ukraine.”
This anniversary served as a crucial moment to honor the resilience of the Ukrainian people and remember the sacrifices made in the struggle for freedom.
The fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion underscores the conflict's duration and intensity, which has had profound consequences not only for Ukraine but for global geopolitics. By commemorating such significant dates, Ukraine continues to draw the world's attention to its fight for independence and territorial integrity. International support remains a key factor, as partner nations provide not only humanitarian but also military aid, strengthening Ukraine's position on the battlefield.