Russia Reaffirms Commitment to Achieving Ukraine War Goals, Cites UN Charter

Russia, through Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, reiterated its position on the ongoing war in Ukraine, stating that all objectives of the “special military operation” will be achieved. The statements were made during a briefing on February 23, according to Russian state media RosSMI.

Seeking a “Stable Peace”

Zakharova indicated that a stable peace in Ukraine is only possible if the “root causes of the conflict” are addressed, suggesting Russia will continue to pursue its own vision for resolving the situation. She emphasized the need to consider Russia’s interests in any resolution efforts.

Justification Based on Self-Defense

Zakharova described the invasion as a “timely and justified” step, claiming it was carried out under the provisions of the UN Charter regarding the right to self-defense .

The Four-Year Mark and International Response

February 24, 2026, marks the fourth anniversary of the beginning of Russia’s full-scale offensive against Ukraine, which commenced in 2022 and became the largest war in Europe since World War II. The initial offensive involved widespread missile strikes, air attacks, and ground advances from multiple directions – Belarus to the north, occupied Donbass and Russian territory to the east, and Crimea to the south.

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has characterized Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions as effectively initiating a Third World War, calling for increased military and economic pressure from the international community to halt the aggression.

Russia’s Position on the UN

In October 2025, Maria Zakharova commented on the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, stating Russia is prepared to work with like-minded countries to restore the UN’s central coordinating role in international affairs . She acknowledged problems within the UN, such as bias and inefficiency, but attributed these to the views and actions of certain member states rather than structural flaws.

Zakharova also highlighted Russia’s participation in a diplomatic event held in Moscow on September 17, attended by representatives from over 100 countries, to discuss the Ukrainian crisis within the framework of the United Nations Charter .