Zelenskyy says Putin has 'not broken' Ukrainians as he marks 4 years since Russia's all-out invasion

Ukrainian president reflects on resilience in face of ongoing conflict

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy marked the 4-year anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, declaring that Russian President Vladimir Putin has "not broken" the Ukrainian people despite the ongoing conflict and devastation. Zelenskyy vowed that Ukraine will continue to fight for its freedom and sovereignty.

Why it matters

The war in Ukraine has now entered its fifth year, with Russia's unprovoked invasion in 2022 leading to immense human suffering and destruction across the country. Zelenskyy's defiant message underscores the Ukrainian people's resolve to resist Russian aggression and maintain their independence.

The details

In a video address, Zelenskyy reflected on the past four years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. He stated that while the war has been difficult, the Ukrainian people have not been broken by Putin's assault. Zelenskyy promised that Ukraine will continue to fight for its freedom and sovereignty, vowing that the country will ultimately prevail.

  • Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
  • Zelenskyy delivered his video address marking the 4-year anniversary of the invasion on February 24, 2026.

The players

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The current President of Ukraine, who has led the country's resistance against the Russian invasion since 2022.

Vladimir Putin

The President of Russia, who ordered the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

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What they’re saying

“Putin has not broken us, and he will not break us.”

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine

The takeaway

Despite the immense challenges and suffering caused by the ongoing Russian invasion, the Ukrainian people have demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination to defend their country's sovereignty and freedom.