Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia has failed to “break” Ukrainians or achieve victory, marking four years since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion that has killed tens of thousands and reshaped Europe’s security landscape.

Speaking on Tuesday, Zelenskyy said Ukraine had defended its independence despite relentless attacks from Russia’s larger and better-equipped military, which still occupies nearly one-fifth of Ukrainian territory. He insisted that Kyiv’s statehood remains intact and Moscow’s key goals have not been met.

The anniversary drew strong international support, with more than a dozen senior European leaders visiting Kyiv to show solidarity. The war has caused massive hardship for civilians, with repeated airstrikes destroying homes and disrupting electricity and water supplies.

Despite diplomatic efforts led by the United States, negotiations remain stalled over the future of the Donbas region and long-term security guarantees sought by Ukraine to prevent another invasion. Zelenskyy also invited US President Donald Trump to visit Ukraine to better understand the human cost of the war.

Western officials say Moscow is banking on prolonged fighting to erode Ukraine’s resistance and weaken international backing. However, European leaders warned that the conflict threatens wider regional stability and stressed continued unity in supporting Kyiv.

As the war grinds into its fifth year, both sides face heavy troop losses and growing reliance on drone warfare, while Ukraine’s long-term reconstruction is estimated to cost nearly $588 billion over the next decade.