Four years ago today, Russia launched its full scale invasion of Ukraine. It has since become the biggest land war in Europe since World War II. Today, Russia controls just about a fifth of Ukraine’s territory. The Center for Strategic and International Studies says Russia suffered 1.2 million casualties, including up to 325,000 troop deaths, between February 2022 and December 2025, while Ukraine suffered between 500,000 to 600,000 military casualties, including up to 140,000 deaths. This is Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy: And today we must be just as determined and strong as we were when the invasion began (on February 24, 2022). The threat hasn’t become smaller. Yes, we are holding Russia back, but we have not yet guaranteed security. And only together can we do this together in Europe. Yes, together with America.”