Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy marked the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion on Monday, praising the nation’s resilience and courage in the face of relentless conflict.
“Three years of resistance. Three years of gratitude. Three years of absolute heroism of Ukrainians. I am proud of Ukraine!” Zelenskyy wrote on X, alongside a powerful video montage of frontline scenes and civilians aiding the war effort.
“I thank everyone who defends and supports it. Everyone who works for Ukraine. And may the memory of all those who gave their lives for our state and people be eternal,” he added.
The anniversary comes amid heightened uncertainty for Ukraine’s future, especially as US President Donald Trump signals a pivot toward Russia, and American officials warn Europe to be prepared to bolster its own defense.
European Leaders Stand With Ukraine
In a significant display of solidarity, European leaders arrived in Kyiv on Monday. Social media posts and images shared by Ukraine’s public broadcaster Suspilne confirmed the visits, with roads in central Kyiv blocked off and police presence increased for security.
“On the 3rd anniversary of Russia’s brutal invasion, Europe is in Kyiv,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on X, accompanied by a video of her and European Council President Antonio Costa arriving at a Kyiv railway station.
“We are in Kyiv today, because Ukraine is Europe,” von der Leyen declared. “In this fight for survival, it is not only the destiny of Ukraine that is at stake.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also made an appearance, as images shared by Suspilne showed him disembarking a train and greeting Ukrainian officials.
Russia Launches Record Drone Attacks
Even as Ukraine marked this somber milestone, Russia intensified its assaults. Overnight, Moscow launched 185 attack drones across Ukraine, according to the Ukrainian Air Force. Of these, 113 were shot down, while 71 were jammed and vanished from radar.
The drone strikes targeted multiple regions, including Dnipropetrovsk, Odesa, Kyiv, and Khmelnytsky, though officials did not specify damage or casualties.
This latest barrage followed Ukraine’s largest drone assault since the war began, with 267 drones launched on Sunday—138 of which were intercepted.
Ukrainian Forces Stand Strong
Ukrainian armed forces commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi also reflected on the anniversary, celebrating the resilience of Ukraine’s military.
“The world did not believe that we would survive, but the Ukrainian people withstood the enemy’s attacks with dignity,” Syrskyi wrote on Telegram.
As the war enters its fourth year, Ukraine continues to fight not only for its sovereignty but for its future in a world where support from key allies appears increasingly uncertain.
