Ukraine has successfully defended its independence since the start of Russia’s invasion and will not betray the sacrifices of its people as it pursues peace, said President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in an address marking four years of war.

“Putin has not achieved his goals. He has not broken the Ukrainian people. He has not won this war,” Zelenskiy stated. “We have preserved Ukraine, and we will do everything to achieve peace and ensure justice.”

Zelenskiy is scheduled to host European dignitaries, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in Kyiv for ceremonies commemorating the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022.

The conflict has resulted in hundreds of thousands of military casualties on both sides and has become Europe’s deadliest war since World War II. Russian strikes have killed tens of thousands of Ukrainian civilians and devastated cities through prolonged missile and drone attacks.

Peace talks, mediated by the United States, have stalled over territorial disputes. Moscow continues to demand that Ukraine cede control of parts of the eastern Donetsk region, while Kyiv insists it will not surrender land defended at great cost.

“We want peace—strong, dignified, and lasting peace,” Zelenskiy said. He also urged negotiators not to “nullify all these years” or “betray the sacrifices and courage” of Ukraine’s people.

The war continues with no clear end in sight, as diplomatic efforts and battlefield developments shape the future of the region.