What do four years of war in Ukraine add up to?
Al Jazeera
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The conflict in Ukraine has reached its fifth year as of February 2026, with nearly two million casualties reported. Over this period, Russia's territorial gains have diminished compared to 2022, and both Ukraine and Russia face significant economic struggles due to prolonged warfare and sanctions. The war's impact extends beyond Ukraine, affecting global energy markets and international relations.
Ukraine has faced internal challenges, including governance issues and corruption, which have hindered its ability to maintain cohesion during the conflict. Despite these hurdles, Ukrainian leaders continue to emphasize their commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity, seeking support from Western nations.
Western countries have provided extensive military aid and financial assistance to Ukraine, with some members of the European Union advocating for increased sanctions on Russia. However, divisions within Europe, particularly among Central and Eastern European states, persist over the level of support for Ukraine and potential risks tied to confrontation with Russia.
The conflict
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/24/2026