Ukraine Commemorates Third Year of War with Russia

Third Anniversary of Ukraine-Russia Conflict Observed

On February 24, 2025, Ukraine commemorated the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion with a summit in Kyiv, attended by over a dozen Western leaders. Notable attendees included UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The summit focused on reinforcing support for Ukraine and discussing strategies to counter Russian aggression.

During the event, President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the necessity of achieving “real, lasting peace” through unity and strength. He reiterated Ukraine’s demand for robust security guarantees to prevent future hostilities.

In contrast, U.S. President Donald Trump advocated for a swift ceasefire and initiated direct negotiations with Russia, excluding Ukrainian and European officials. This approach has raised concerns among European leaders, who stress the importance of Ukraine’s involvement in any peace negotiations.

Prime Minister Starmer underscored the need to compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to make concrete concessions. He called for intensified economic sanctions on Russian banks and oil companies to pressure Russia into meaningful negotiations.

The summit also highlighted the European Union’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, with leaders pledging increased military aid and emphasizing the importance of European autonomy in defense matters. This stance reflects a growing sentiment for self-reliance amid uncertainties regarding U.S. foreign policy.

For a comprehensive overview of the summit and the discussions held, you can watch the following video: