European leaders pray with Ukraine’s Zelenskyy on invasion anniversary
Al Jazeera
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
European leaders joined Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv on Friday to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The event, held at St. Michael's Monastery, featured a religious service attended by several EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron. This symbolic gesture underscored the ongoing solidarity between Europe and Ukraine as the conflict进入its fifth year.
The service was both a commemoration of Ukraine's resilience and a call for peace. Zelenskyy addressed attendees, emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of aggression. He thanked the international community for its support but also highlighted the need for continued efforts to hold Russia accountable. The event was widely seen as a display of solidarity with Ukraine and a reaffirmation of Europe's commitment to addressing the war.
While many world leaders have expressed support for Ukraine, this gathering stood out due to its interfaith and inclusive nature. Representatives from various religious backgrounds participated, reflecting the global nature of the conflict and its impact on humanity. The service also included prayers for peace and messages of hope, resonating with both attendees and those watching globally.
This event matters because it highlights the enduring importance of international unity in addressing conflicts like Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine. By bringing together political and religious leaders, it serves as a reminder that the fight against authoritarianism and for human dignity is a shared global responsibility. As the conflict drags on, such moments of solidarity offer hope to those affected by the war and reaffirm the values of democracy and peace.
For readers interested in world affairs, this summary captures the significance of the event, its context within the ongoing俄乌冲突 (Ukraine-Russia conflict), and its implications for international relations. It also underscores the role of faith and diplomacy in addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/24/2026