A Nation Forged in Resistance

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to launch what he termed a “special military operation” on February 24, 2022, ignited the largest conflict in europe as World War II. The invasion has resulted in immense human suffering and widespread destruction, claiming the lives of tens of thousands of soldiers and Ukrainian civilians. cities in the south and east lie in ruins, and millions have been forced to flee their homes.

Zelensky Hails Ukrainian Heroism

In a statement marking the anniversary,President Zelensky paid tribute to the unwavering spirit of the Ukrainian people. Three years of resistance. Three years of gratitude.Three years of absolute heroism of Ukrainians, he declared.He further added, I thank everyone who defends and supports it.

EU Leaders Affirm Support in Kyiv

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, arriving in Kyiv by train, emphasized the critical importance of Ukraine’s fight for survival. We are in Kyiv today, because Ukraine is Europe, she stated. In this fight for survival, it is not only the destiny of Ukraine that is at stake.Its Europe’s destiny.

EU Council President Antonio Costa echoed this sentiment, seemingly addressing concerns about potential shifts in international diplomacy. In ukraine, about Ukraine, with Ukraine, Costa affirmed, underscoring the importance of Ukrainian involvement in any discussions regarding the conflict’s resolution.

Zelensky Eyes “Turning Point” with Kyiv Meeting

President Zelensky expressed hope that the gathering of leaders in Kyiv would mark a meaningful “turning point” in the conflict. He noted that 13 leaders were present in Kyiv, with an additional 24 participating in a special meeting online. Zelensky is advocating for security guarantees from Ukraine’s allies to prevent Russia from exploiting any ceasefire to rearm and launch future attacks.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, the Kremlin reiterated its stance on the eve of the anniversary, asserting that Russia would not relinquish control of the territories it has seized in eastern and southern Ukraine.Russia has also stated its opposition to Ukraine’s potential NATO membership.

On the 3rd anniversary of Russia’s brutal invasion, Europe is in Kyiv.We are in Kyiv today, because ukraine is Europe. In this fight for survival, it is not only the destiny of ukraine that is at stake. It’s Europe’s destiny.

Ursula von der Leyen via Twitter

Trump’s Diplomatic Overtures Raise Concerns

Donald Trump’s renewed diplomatic engagement with Russia has sparked alarm in Ukraine and across Europe. Trump has reportedly restarted diplomacy with Russia, calling Vladimir Putin for a 90-minute phone conversation and dispatching Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Saudi Arabia for a meeting with Russian foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Trump is pushing both Ukraine and Russia for a swift end to the war.

EU Imposes Fresh Sanctions on Russia

In response to Russia’s ongoing aggression, the EU has implemented a new round of sanctions aimed at further restricting Moscow’s war efforts. This marks the 16th round of sanctions imposed by the 27-nation bloc since the full-scale invasion began on February 24, 2022.

EU top diplomat Kaja Kallas stated, This new round of sanctions not only targets the russian shadow fleet but those who support the operation of unsafe oil tankers, videogame controllers used to pilot drones, banks used to circumvent our sanctions, and propaganda outlets used to spout lies.

The latest sanctions include restrictions on imports of Russian aluminum and the blacklisting of 74 vessels from the “shadow fleet” used by Russia to bypass oil export limits. There is there’s no doubt whatsoever about who the aggressor is, who should pay and be held accountable for this war, Kallas asserted. With talks under way to end Russia’s aggression, we must put Ukraine in the strongest possible position. Sanctions provide leverage.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded by accusing Europe of seeking to prolong the conflict, contrasting this with the United States’ apparent desire for a settlement. This conviction of the Europeans fully contrasts with the mindset of finding a settlement on Ukraine, which we are now doing with the Americans, Peskov told reporters.

Macron to Meet Trump, Seeking Unified Approach

French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to meet with President Trump in Washington, where he intends to present “proposals for action” to address the “Russian threat” in Europe and secure peace in Ukraine. Macron hopes to persuade Trump to include European leaders in any discussions between russia and the United States.

Macron aims to convince Trump to maintain US support for Ukraine, respect its sovereignty, and ensure that European interests are fully considered. He also seeks to emphasize that Russia poses an “existential threat” to Europe and that Putin “will not respect” a ceasefire.

Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have coordinated their messaging ahead of Macron’s visit to the United States. Britain and France are also reportedly discussing the potential deployment of European forces in Ukraine after a peace agreement is reached,with the aim of deterring future Russian aggression.The idea is to deploy soldiers to a second line, not on the front line. This could be combined with a multinational operation, with non-European contingents, a French source stated.

Macron and Starmer are expected to request “solid security guarantees” from Trump for any deployed forces. While the Trump governance has ruled out committing US soldiers to the war effort, Europe hopes for other forms of support, such as logistics or intelligence. European leaders are also prepared to increase their defense spending as Trump seeks to reduce the US commitment to the region’s security.

It is in his interest to work with the Europeans because Europe has a capacity for growth — an economic potential — to cooperate with Americans, Macron said.