Ukraine: 24th February and the current situation

Over the past few days, global politics has been filled with shocking and distressing news. In times like these, it is important not only to focus on what is happening now, but also to remember events that have been shaping our world for years.

February 24th marked four years since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began — a day that changed everything for Ukrainians. Since then, millions of lives have been deeply affected, and the consequences of that invasion continue to influence both Ukraine and the wider international community. Creating new realities in terms of the security of Europe, which must rely increasingly on itself.

Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is beautiful, rich in culture, and the largest country located entirely in Europe. It is known for its unbreakable people and strong sense of identity. Yet throughout its history, Ukraine has experienced many painful and difficult moments. The most recent and devastating challenge is the war it is fighting against Russia.

The conflict did not begin in 2022. It began in February 2014, when Russia occupied Crimea. At that time, Ukraine was going through political instability due to the Revolution of Dignity, also known as Euromaidan. This was a nationwide protest movement that began after the government refused to sign an agreement on European integration.

Crimea

Crimea

Ukrainians protested against corruption, abuse of power by law enforcement, and the President’s decision to turn away from Europe. Above all, they wanted to protect Ukraine’s independence, democratic future, sovereignty and independence from Russia.

Seeing Ukraine in a vulnerable state during this period of unrest, Russia occupied Crimea in February 2014, illegally annexing the peninsula after deploying its military forces. Shortly after, in April 2014, Russian-backed forces began military actions in eastern Ukraine, particularly in Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. By the beginning of 2022, Russia had fully occupied Crimea and controlled parts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. For eight years, the Ukrainian army fought to defend its territory and freedom.

Then, on February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. That morning changed everything. For Ukrainians, there is now a clear “before” and “after.” It is a day that will never be forgotten.

Today the war is still ongoing. According to recent international reports, Russia continues to carry out large-scale missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure, particularly during the winter months. In early 2026, missile and drone strikes remained frequent, targeting power facilities and residential areas, causing civilian casualties and damage to electricity systems. But not only that, they also attacked a thermal power plant which provides heat/hot water, which meant that lots of high-rise buildings in many cities were left without any heat or hot water when it was -20 degrees outside. Just imagine that for a second please. More importantly there is still the same situation in many places. Ukrainian air defence systems intercept many of these attacks, but disruptions to daily life continue. Fighting also remains active along several front-line regions in eastern and southern Ukraine, while international diplomatic efforts and military aid continue as Ukraine works to defend its territory and sovereignty.

The first days of the invasion were filled with fear, confusion and panic. Schools were closed. The News was constantly on in every home. Long queues formed at fuel stations and grocery stores. Flights were cancelled. No one fully understood what would happen next. Many men and women volunteered to defend their country.

I am from Ukraine and I can assure you that even in 20 or 30 years, I will remember that day clearly. I was only 13 years old. I remember coming downstairs and my parents telling me that the war had begun. I remember how school was cancelled and how my biggest worry was no longer a maths test. I remember walking my dog when an air raid alert started. I remember people packing their entire lives into one car and leaving their homes. I remember going to the shop and seeing empty shelves. I will never forget the rocket that flew in front of me, or the moment my friend told me that her classmate had died in an attack.

Despite the fear, there was also unity and determination. Ukrainians knew from the very beginning that they would not give up. The Ukrainian army worked tirelessly to defend the country. Every day brought new attacks, new losses, and new challenges. However, alongside the pain and destruction, there were also moments of hope.

Yes, there is loss. But there are also victories.

Every new day is another day that Ukraine and its people continue to stand strong, to resist, and to survive. Even in the darkest times, Ukrainians find ways to support one another, rebuild, and believe in a better future. Each sunrise is proof that Ukraine is still here — still fighting, and still unbreakable.

Over time, the war has sadly become part of everyday life. This may sound strange to people who have never experienced war, but for Ukrainians this is now the twelfth year of fighting for freedom. Even after nights of attacks and sleepless hours spent in fear, people wake up in the morning and go to school, to work, or continue their daily responsibilities. Life continues, even when it does not feel normal.

The battle line in this war is longer than the distance from London to Berlin, it’s like the distance from London to Vienna. This is also the largest war since World War II on the territory of Europe, but Ukraine is still holding on and remains strong above all else.

This winter was especially difficult. In many places, temperatures dropped to –25°C. At the same time, Russia continued targeting infrastructure, leaving many people without electricity, heating, or water. Despite all of this, Ukrainians remained strong and resilient.

People built snowmen and igloos. Neighbours gathered outside, played music, danced, and cooked food over open fires to stay warm. Once again, Ukrainians showed that nothing can break their spirit.

Children continued going to school. Workers continued doing their jobs. Soldiers continued defending the country. Ukrainians became even stronger and more united.

Recently, when I returned home to Lviv in western Ukraine, I saw many tourists from abroad visiting to show their support. That reminded me that Ukraine is not alone.

The struggle continues — but so does hope.

Stay strong as Ukraine does it every day.

Glory to Ukraine! (Слава Україні!)