Ukraine remembers its dead as war enters a fifth year
BBC World
February 24, 2026
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Ukraine marked four years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion with solemn ceremonies across the country, remembering the dead and reaffirming its resolve to defend independence despite ongoing losses. President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine has "not lost our statehood," while Russian officials acknowledged their war aims remain unfulfilled and blamed Western support for prolonging the conflict. The war continues to exact a heavy toll, with both sides suffering mounting casualties and civilians enduring daily airstrikes.
In Kyiv, a minute's silence brought the city to a standstill, as people gathered in Maidan Square to honor the fallen under a sea of flags. In Bucha, where some of the worst atrocities occurred during Russia's invasion, locals paid tribute to soldiers at gravesites, expressing frustration over the war's longevity. Zelensky's speech from the underground corridors of the presidential palace highlighted Ukraine's resilience since February 2022, when many predicted its swift defeat. Instead, Ukraine has held firm against Russian forces in eastern regions like Donbas, despite immense human and resource costs.
The international response remains a key factor in the conflict. European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron, joined Zelensky to discuss peace efforts, though progress has been slow. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer dismissed claims of Russian superiority, pointing to minimal territorial gains at a high cost for Moscow. Meanwhile, Russia's control over nearly 20% of Ukrainian territory continues to fuel tensions, as global leaders weigh their support for Kyiv and the potential for further escalation.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/24/2026