EU Leaders Commemorate Fourth Anniversary of Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

On February 24, 2026, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa, and leaders from Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, and Croatia arrived in Kyiv to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This visit, which marked von der Leyen's tenth trip to Kyiv since the onset of the war, aimed to reaffirm Europe's commitment to supporting Ukraine amid ongoing conflict. Von der Leyen stated that the trip was intended "to reaffirm that Europe stands firmly with Ukraine — financially, militarily, and through this harsh winter," emphasizing the EU's resolve to restore peace.

Euromaiden PressEuromaiden Press

In a show of solidarity, EU institutions illuminated their buildings in the colors of Ukraine's flag on the eve of the anniversary. The European Commission raised Ukraine's flag outside its Brussels headquarters, with von der Leyen expressing on social media that the colors symbolize "courage" and "resistance." The EU Council building also displayed the blue and yellow colors, reinforcing the message that the EU will continue to support Ukraine in its quest for a "comprehensive, just and lasting peace."

Euromaiden Press

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the European Parliament via video link during a special session commemorating the anniversary. He expressed gratitude for the EU's ongoing support but urged for a clear timeline for Ukraine's EU membership, warning that without it, Russian President Vladimir Putin could exploit divisions within Europe to hinder Ukraine's progress. Zelenskyy called for a complete economic separation from Russia, stating, "There must be no place in the free world for Russian oil, for Russian tankers, Russian banks."

Euromaiden Press

Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the EU's commitment to Ukraine, stating, "We will not relent until peace is restored." António Costa echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a "just and lasting peace in Ukraine." Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha welcomed the visiting leaders, thanking them for their steadfast support throughout the four years of conflict.

Euromaiden Press

Despite the show of unity, challenges remain. Hungary's veto of a €90 billion loan and the 20th sanctions package against Russia have not been resolved, indicating potential fractures in the EU's collective response to the war.

Euromaiden Press

While the EU leaders' visit was widely reported as a demonstration of solidarity, there are ongoing discussions regarding the effectiveness of the EU's financial and military support, particularly in light of Hungary's opposition. The lack of a unified approach to sanctions and financial aid could undermine the EU's overall strategy in supporting Ukraine.

Euromaiden Press

• "Tonight, we adorn our European institutions with the colours of Ukraine. Two colours, carrying the spirit of courage." — Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

Euromaiden Press

• "February 24th, 2022, has forever divided the history of Europe into 'before' and 'after.'" — Andrii Sybiha, Ukrainian Foreign Minister

Euromaiden Press

• "We will not relent until peace is restored." — Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission

Euromaiden Press

This anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing conflict and the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine in its struggle for sovereignty and stability.

Euromaiden Press