November 19, 2024, marks a somber milestone—1,000 days since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This prolonged war has become a testament to the extraordinary resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom.

When Russia started its invasion on February 24, 2022, many experts anticipated a swift collapse of Ukraine. Predictions centered on Russian forces quickly seizing Kyiv and dismantling Ukraine’s government. Yet, Ukraine defied these expectations. Against overwhelming odds, Ukrainians repelled the initial assault on their capital, preserved their sovereignty, and demonstrated remarkable unity and courage.

From the outset, millions of Ukrainians mobilized to defend their nation. Despite widespread destruction of infrastructure, essential services like banking and internet connectivity have persisted. Businesses and communities have adapted with exceptional ingenuity, driven by the understanding that this war is existential—a battle for Ukraine’s survival as a free and independent nation.

Ukraine’s steadfast resistance has inspired global support. The international community has responded with sanctions against Russia and extensive humanitarian and military aid for Ukraine. The solidarity shown by allies has played a critical role in bolstering the country’s defense and recovery efforts. Ukrainians remain deeply grateful for this support.

Despite their resilience, Ukrainians face immense challenges. Russian forces continue to target civilians and critical infrastructure, inflicting widespread suffering. Nearly 4 million people remain internally displaced, while another 6.7 million have sought refuge abroad. Calls for peace negotiations have grown louder, yet many proposals disregard Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

History offers a cautionary tale. Between 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea, and 2022, Ukraine and Russia engaged in approximately 200 rounds of negotiations mediated by the OSCE, Germany, and France. During this period, 20 ceasefire agreements were reached, yet all were violated by Russia. These fruitless talks ultimately paved the way for the current full-scale invasion.

Ukraine seeks peace but not at any cost. The country rejects the notion of a frozen conflict, which would only delay an inevitable resurgence of Russian aggression. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Peace Formula, introduced in November 2022, outlines a comprehensive and internationally endorsed framework for achieving a just and lasting peace.

In February 2023, 141 countries supported Ukraine’s Peace Formula by adopting a UN General Assembly resolution. The formula emphasizes a rules-based international order grounded in respect for international law and the UN Charter, contrasting starkly with Russia’s “might is right” approach.

No nation desires peace more than Ukraine, which never sought this war. Ukrainians defend themselves under Article 51 of the UN Charter, refusing any attempt to equate the victim of aggression with the aggressor. Their goal is clear: a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace that restores their territorial integrity and preserves their sovereignty.

As Ukraine enters its third winter of war, international solidarity remains vital. The Ukrainian government and its people have shown exceptional leadership in recovery and humanitarian efforts. Continued global support is essential to uphold Ukraine’s independence and ensure peace rooted in justice.

Over these 1,000 days, Ukraine’s resistance has been about more than defending its borders. It is a fight for identity, culture, and the fundamental right to self-determination. Ukraine’s defiance has disproven doubters and invaders alike, proving that unity and determination can withstand even the most formidable challenges.

The world must continue to stand with Ukraine, championing the values of freedom and justice in the face of tyranny.