Ukraine remembers its dead as war enters a fifth year

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete February 24, 2026 at 07:13 PM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Ukraine is remembering its dead as the country enters its fifth year of war against Russia. The conflict began four years ago, with Russia launching a full-scale invasion that has resulted in significant military losses on both sides. Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelensky, stated that his country has defended its independence and statehood, while the Kremlin acknowledged that its initial goals have not been fully achieved. Despite controlling around 20% of Ukrainian territory, Russia continues to attack Ukraine, with near-daily aerial attacks on the population. A minute's silence was observed in Kyiv's Maidan square, where people laid flowers on graves of fallen soldiers, as a sense of solidarity and remembrance filled the air. The war has taken a heavy toll on Ukraine, with many lives lost and families affected.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

European Union 30% Finland 30% Alexander Stubb 40% Ulf Kristersson 40% Ursula Von der Leyen 40% Bucha 40% Dmitry Peskov 50% Donbas 50% Kyiv ×370% Volodymyr Zelensky ×380% Russia ×690% Ukraine ×10100%

Keywords

ukraine war 100% russian invasion 90% war dead 80% military losses 70% ukrainian military 60% aerial attacks 60% russian forces 50% western support 50% donbas region 40%