EU Leaders Mark First Anniversary of Ukraine War

EU leaders marked the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in video statements released on Friday, February 24.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reflected on, “One year of brutal Russian aggression. One year of heroic Ukrainian resistance.”

Addressing Ukrainians, she said, “We are with you, for as long as it takes.”

European Council President Charles Michel called February 24 a “dark anniversary” for Ukraine, Europe and the world. “A free and independent Ukraine is a free and independent Europe. Ukraine will prevail,” he said. Credit: Ursula von der Leyen/Charles Michel via Storyful

Video transcript

URSULA VON DER LEYEN: One year of brutal Russian aggression. One year of heroic Ukrainian resistance. One year of European solidarity. Ahead of us is a future of unity. You are fighting for freedom, for democracy, and for your place in the European Union. We are with you for as long as it takes. Slava Ukraini. And long live Europe.

One year of brutal Russian aggression. One year of heroic Ukrainian resistance. One year of European solidarity. Ahead of us is a future of unity. You are fighting for freedom, for democracy, and for your place in the European Union. We are with you for as long as it takes. Slava Ukraini. And long live Europe.

One year of brutal Russian aggression. One year of heroic Ukrainian resistance. One year of European solidarity. Ahead of us is a future of unity. You are fighting for freedom, for democracy, and for your place in the European Union. We are with you for as long as it takes. Slava Ukraini. And long live Europe.