Ukraine War Enters Fifth Year: Zelenskyy Declares Russia Has Failed

As the war in Ukraine enters its fifth year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has asserted that Russia has not achieved its objectives, failing to break the spirit of the Ukrainian people or secure victory. This assessment comes as Ukraine continues to face ongoing attacks, particularly on its energy infrastructure, and as international support remains a critical factor in its defense.

International Support and Coalition of the Willing

Marking four years since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, leaders from the “Coalition of the Willing” convened to demonstrate solidarity with Zelenskyy and Ukraine. Over thirty leaders participated in a virtual meeting, with Zelenskyy joined in person by leaders from Nordic and Baltic countries, the European Union, and Croatia in Kyiv. Al Jazeera reported on this show of support on February 24, 2026.

The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to a just and lasting peace, adhering to the principles of the UN Charter and emphasizing the inviolability of international borders. They welcomed ongoing U.S. Efforts toward peace negotiations, stressing the need for Russia’s meaningful engagement and a full, unconditional ceasefire.

Continued Military and Economic Pressure on Russia

Leaders pledged to maintain and increase economic pressure on Russia through additional sanctions, targeting the Russian Shadow Fleet, oil trading networks, and the Russian Military Industrial Complex. They also committed to disrupting Russia’s financial networks. CBS News highlighted this commitment on February 25, 2026.

The coalition also reaffirmed its commitment to providing multi-layered security guarantees to Ukraine, as agreed upon in Paris in January 2026, including support through the Multi National Force for Ukraine, with backing from the United States.

Humanitarian Concerns and Infrastructure Support

The leaders condemned Russia’s attacks on Ukrainian cities and civilian infrastructure, acknowledging the dire humanitarian consequences, particularly during the winter months. They pledged further assistance to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, including the provision of air defense systems. More than half a billion euros in latest pledges have been made to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund so far in 2026.

Assessment of Battlefield Losses and Ukrainian Counter-Offensives

The coalition noted Russia’s significant casualties, estimating almost half a million losses in the past year alone. They welcomed recent Ukrainian counter-attacks and committed to sustaining military and fiscal support, including the EU’s €90 billion loan and bilateral contributions.

Zelenskyy’s Stance and Kremlin Response

President Zelenskyy stated, “We have defended our independence, we have not lost our statehood; Putin has not achieved his goals. He has not broken Ukrainians; he has not won this war.” He emphasized Ukraine’s desire for a strong, dignified, and lasting peace, contingent on Ukrainian acceptance of any agreement.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov countered, stating that Russia has not yet achieved all its war aims in Ukraine and will continue military operations until they are met. CBS News reported Peskov’s statement on February 25, 2026.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy: A Profile

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has served as the sixth President of Ukraine since 2019. Prior to his political career, he was a well-known entertainer and founder of the Kvartal 95 Studio. Wikipedia provides a comprehensive overview of his life and career.