Today, February 24, 2025, marks the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addresses the nation, lauding the “absolute heroism” displayed by Ukrainians in their steadfast resistance against Russian aggression. He emphasizes the resilience and unity that have characterized the country’s response over the past three years.
In a significant show of solidarity, over a dozen European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, convene in Kyiv to commemorate the anniversary. Their presence underscores the continued support for Ukraine from Western allies. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterates the European Union’s commitment, stating, “On the third anniversary of Russia’s brutal invasion, Europe is in Kyiv. We are in Kyiv today because Ukraine is Europe.”
Concurrently, President Donald Trump hosts President Macron at the White House, marking the first visit by a European leader since Trump’s return to office. The discussions center on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the prospects for peace. Macron aims to persuade Trump to involve Ukraine and European leaders in peace negotiations and to maintain NATO solidarity.
The United Nations General Assembly adopts a resolution demanding Russia’s immediate troop withdrawal from Ukraine. The resolution passes with 93 votes in favor, 18 against, and 65 abstentions. Notably, the United States votes against the resolution, aligning with Russia, Belarus, and North Korea, while China abstains.
Despite international support, Ukraine faces challenges due to shifting U.S. policies under the Trump administration. The U.S. reopens relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and seeks to negotiate an end to the war, marking a significant departure from the previous administration’s stance. This shift raises concerns among European allies about the potential implications for regional security and the balance of power in Eastern Europe.
Sources:
- Foreign leaders arrive in Kyiv to mark anniversary of war as Zelenskyy hails ‘three years of resistance’
- The Latest: Ukraine marks third anniversary of war as US shifts its policy under Trump
- Trump-Macron meeting: leaders to discuss Ukraine war
- Ukraine-Russia latest: Starmer reins in Trump criticism in plea for US ‘backstop’ on anniversary of war
- Trump hosts France’s Macron at the White House amid Ukraine conflict
- On third anniversary of Russia’s invasion Zelenskiy says he is proud of ‘absolute heroism’ of Ukrainians
