1,000 days of war “mark a painful milestone”, say Greens/EFA MEPs Sinkevičius & Staķis

Today marks the 1,000th day since the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine started on 24 February 2022. Greens/EFA Baltic MEPs Mārtiņš Staķis from Latvia and Virginijus Sinkevičius from Lithuania comment on the ongoing war and urge Member States to uphold their support for Ukraine.

Greens/EFA MEP Mārtiņš Staķis (Progresīvie) comments:

"On the 1,000th day of Ukraine's heroic resistance against Russia's full-scale invasion, the world witnesses a nation that refuses to be broken. Ukraine’s courage embodies the values of freedom, democracy, and human dignity at the heart of the European Union, as it steadfastly moves toward EU membership. Russia’s criminal tactics persist, marked by relentless attacks on civilian infrastructure and the killing of civilians, with support from North Korea, Iran, and others. This makes it even more urgent for the EU to act decisively. To protect its sovereignty, Ukraine must be allowed to fully exercise its right to self-defense under international law, which includes removing restrictions on how it can use the weapons it receives. The EU must stand with Ukraine, not in promises, but with decisive support. For Ukraine, victory and a just peace will only come through strength."

Greens/EFA MEP Virginijus Sinkevičius (Demokratų sąjunga „Vardan Lietuvos“) comments:

"1,000 days of war in Ukraine mark a painful milestone—a reminder of the immense suffering, loss, and destruction caused by Russia’s aggression. Cities have been destroyed, families displaced, and countless lives forever changed. Yet, Ukraine’s people have shown remarkable courage and resilience, standing firm in defense of their country and their future.

"The European Union has stood with Ukraine every step of the way—offering refuge to those fleeing violence, delivering critical aid, and providing the means to resist aggression. But this fight is about more than Ukraine. It is about safeguarding the shared values that unite us: the right to sovereignty, the pursuit of justice, and the promise of peace.

"This moment calls for continued determination and action. Ukraine has paid a heavy price, and it is our responsibility to support their fight for a future defined by freedom and security."