Ukrainians mark four years of 'pain, despair and disbelief' as Russian invasion continues

Four years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the war shows no sign of abating, with mounting casualties, continued strikes on civilian infrastructure and faltering ceasefire efforts. As global tributes mark the February 24 anniversary, calls are growing for stronger international action to apply pressure to Russia and bring an end to Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II.

A man walks away from a house destroyed by a Russian attack, Sofiivska Borshchahivka village, Kyiv region, Ukraine, February 22, 2026. In the early hours of February 22, Russian forces launched a massive strike on Ukraine using drones and missiles, with Kyiv and the Kyiv region among the targets. Emergency workers rescued a man while responding to the aftermath of the strike in Sofiivska Borshchahivka. (Photo by Danylo Antoniuk/Ukrinform) (Photo by Ukrinform/Ukrinform/Sipa USA) Source: SIPA USA / DANYLO ANTONIUK/DANYLO ANTONIUK/Ukrinform/Sipa USA