As Ukraine commemorates three years of resistance against Russian aggression, Zelensky lauds Ukrainian heroism while grappling with uncertain US support. European leaders pledge solidarity, but the specter of a Trump-led America looms large, forcing Europe to re-evaluate its security posture and step up its commitment to Ukraine's defense.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy hailed the "absolute heroism" of the Ukrainian people as they marked the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion. This somber milestone arrives amidst a backdrop of shifting geopolitical dynamics, with Europe stepping up to support Ukraine as the future of US commitment remains uncertain.
"Three years of resistance. Three years of gratitude. Three years of absolute heroism of Ukrainians," declared Zelenskyy.
His words resonated with a nation that has defied expectations, transforming in the face of immense adversity. Kateryna Andreeva, a bank worker with a soldier fighting in the east, noted that Ukraine is now "a completely different country," its people fundamentally changed by the conflict. "We have become stronger. We are fighting for independence, but we have become more independent of everything and everyone."
European leaders converged in Kyiv, not only to commemorate the anniversary but also to demonstrate unwavering support. The UK announced new sanctions against Moscow, and the EU pledged a new €3.5 billion ($3.7 billion) aid package, set to arrive by March 2. Ursula Von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, emphasized that the EU and its member states have provided €135 billion ($141 billion) in support since February 2022, surpassing any other entity.
However, the shadow of former US President Donald Trump loomed large. His past statements echoing Kremlin disinformation and questioning Zelenskyy's leadership have fueled concerns about the future of transatlantic relations. Trump's claim that Zelenskyy "should never have started" the war directly contradicts the widely acknowledged reality of Russia's unprovoked aggression.
The US abstained from voting on its own UN resolution to condemn Russia, after amendments were added to strengthen the language against Russia and reaffirm Ukraine’s territorial integrity. The amended resolution, which included new language blaming Russia for the invasion, was then adopted by the UN General Assembly. This move, coupled with Trump's remarks, has led some Ukrainians to question the reliability of the US as an ally. Anna Anisimova, a police officer, expressed a growing reliance on European partners, stating, "I’m not counting on America."
Amidst the uncertainty, a potential deal granting the US access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals is under negotiation. Trump has suggested this agreement would "ensure the American people recoup the Tens of Billions of Dollars and Military Equipment sent to Ukraine, while also helping Ukraine’s economy grow." However, a Ukrainian source revealed that the US is resisting the inclusion of security guarantees in the agreement.
Yuriy Bilopolsky, a 75-year-old pensioner, voiced a sentiment shared by some Ukrainians: a feeling of abandonment by the US and a hope that Europe is finally "waking up." Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the spirit of defiance remains strong. As Major Taras Berezovets noted, Putin's initial plan to occupy Kyiv in three days has failed, and the war continues into its fourth year. The resilience and transformation of the Ukrainian people stand as a testament to their unwavering determination.