Full Breakdown
Paris Demonstrates Solidarity with Ukraine Ahead of Invasion Anniversary
2/22/2026, 11:25:33 PM
Mass Rally in Support of Ukraine
On February 21, 2026, approximately 2,000 people marched in Paris to express their unwavering support for Ukraine, just days before the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. Demonstrators chanted slogans such as “We support Ukraine against Putin, who is killing it” and called for the confiscation of frozen Russian assets to benefit Ukraine. European Parliament member Raphael Glucksmann highlighted the enduring public support for Ukraine, contrasting it with emerging voices of capitulation within the French political landscape, particularly from the far left and far right.
Humanitarian Efforts and Energy Support
In conjunction with the rally, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo to discuss ongoing humanitarian efforts and energy assistance for Ukraine. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the support received in restoring cities like Borodyanka and Bucha, which suffered extensive damage during the conflict. Hidalgo, who has visited Ukraine multiple times since the invasion, has been active in advocating against the participation of Russian and Belarusian athletes in the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) announced a significant allocation of over $230 million for urgent energy equipment to support Ukraine's recovery efforts in 2026. This funding aims to address the severe damage inflicted on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, particularly following extensive missile strikes that left millions without electricity, heat, and water. Key contributors to this initiative include the European Union, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden.
Criticism of Neighboring Countries
Amid these developments, Ukraine's foreign ministry condemned Hungary and Slovakia for what it described as “ultimatums and blackmail” regarding energy supplies. Both countries threatened to halt electricity supplies to Ukraine unless it resumed flows of Russian oil. The Ukrainian government rejected these demands, asserting that ultimatums should be directed at the Kremlin rather than Kyiv.
Broader Implications and Future Actions
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, with millions of refugees fleeing Ukraine and vast areas devastated by fighting. As the anniversary of the invasion approaches, the international community continues to grapple with the implications of the war, including energy security and diplomatic relations.
Looking ahead, Ukraine's First Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal has secured over €600 million in additional energy support during recent meetings in Paris, further emphasizing the need for international cooperation in addressing Ukraine's energy challenges.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In public opinion, there is massive support for Ukraine that has not wavered since the first day of the full-scale invasion” — Raphael Glucksmann, European Parliament Member
- “everyone that what has been happening for four years is not normal, it is not right.” — Irina Kryvosheia, Ukrainian Expat
- “Ultimatums should be sent to the Kremlin, and certainly not to Kyiv.” — Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Statement
This rally and the discussions surrounding it underscore the ongoing commitment of various nations and organizations to support Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression, while also highlighting the complexities of international relations in the context of the war.
