EU leaders, including Presidents Costa and von der Leyen, affirmed their commitment to Ukraine’s EU accession, with von der Leyen suggesting membership could occur before 2030 if reforms continue. Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of continued US support and ongoing discussions regarding security guarantees for Ukraine. The anniversary of the Russian invasion prompted a show of solidarity from numerous Western leaders in Kyiv, though without high-level US representation. New EU sanctions targeting Russia’s “shadow fleet” and individuals were also announced, alongside plans for a defense summit focused on Ukraine.
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Three years after the Russian invasion, Keir Starmer underscored the critical importance of Ukraine’s defense, emphasizing a Ukrainian patient’s warning that a Ukrainian defeat would endanger Europe. Starmer also noted that Donald Trump’s engagement with Putin, despite controversial statements, has shifted the global dialogue surrounding the conflict. The Prime Minister pledged robust sanctions against Russia to pressure Putin into concessions, aiming to secure a just and lasting peace.
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Despite convivial appearances, Macron’s Oval Office meeting with Trump revealed strained transatlantic relations, particularly regarding the Ukraine war. A notable disagreement arose when Macron corrected Trump’s inaccurate claim that Europe only loaned money to Ukraine, stating Europe contributed 60% of the total aid. While Trump expressed openness to a European peacekeeping force and a deal securing Ukrainian mineral revenues, he maintained his controversial stance on the war’s origins and timeline, and his desire to meet with Putin. Macron’s strategy focused on managing the situation and emphasizing a united European front, coordinating with Starmer to present a unified approach to Trump.
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Norway pledged €3.5 billion in aid to Ukraine for 2025, highlighting a commitment to ongoing and potentially increased financial support. This substantial contribution follows similar announcements from Spain (€1 billion in military aid and a Ukrainian recovery hub) and the UK (expanded sanctions against Russia). The summit underscored continued international resolve to assist Ukraine’s defense and recovery efforts.
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Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, declared Ukraine’s NATO membership irreversible, asserting it as the most effective and cost-efficient security guarantee. This assertion followed an EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting where a potential €30 billion military aid package for Ukraine was discussed, though delivery may involve individual member state contributions due to internal opposition. Kallas emphasized Ukraine’s strong military as a compelling reason for NATO inclusion, highlighting the implications of alternative security guarantees. The final decision regarding NATO membership and the aid package will be further addressed at an upcoming EU summit.
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On the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, the UN General Assembly rejected a U.S.-proposed resolution for ending the war that omitted mention of Russian aggression, instead approving a Ukrainian resolution demanding Russia’s immediate withdrawal. While the Ukrainian resolution passed, support was lower than in previous votes, highlighting diminished international backing. The U.S. abstained from voting on the amended version of its own resolution, reflecting tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine stemming from recent diplomatic initiatives. This outcome underscores the ongoing divisions within the international community regarding the conflict and the challenges in achieving a peaceful resolution.
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At a Kyiv summit marking the war’s third anniversary, Prime Minister Trudeau announced $5 billion in aid for Ukraine, the first tranche from seized Russian assets. This commitment includes 25 additional light armoured vehicles, support for energy security, and four F-16 flight simulators. Trudeau reiterated Canada’s support for Ukraine’s role in peace negotiations and emphasized the need to prevent a return to might-makes-right principles. Canada will continue training Ukrainian troops and assisting in post-conflict recovery and rebuilding.
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On the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion, President Zelenskyy announced Ukraine’s readiness for an “all-for-all” prisoner exchange with Russia. This comprehensive swap, encompassing all Ukrainian prisoners held by Russia since 2014, is presented as a potential pathway to peace and trust-building. Proposals for such an exchange have already been developed by Ukrainian officials, highlighting a consistent push for its implementation. The announcement follows a recent prisoner exchange on February 5th, demonstrating continued efforts to secure the release of Ukrainian captives.
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A Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) operation is responsible for explosions reported among Russian FPV drone goggles. HUR operatives purchased and rigged a large batch of goggles with explosives and a remote detonation system, which were then donated to Russian units through coordinated “volunteers.” The operation aimed to retaliate for Russian war crimes. While these claims remain unverified, the incident highlights the escalating use of drone technology in the conflict.
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During a Kyiv press conference marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that Canadian troop deployment to Ukraine remains a possibility. This consideration is part of Canada’s broader commitment to supporting Ukraine’s security, with Trudeau emphasizing that all options are being explored to aid in a potential peace agreement. The commitment to Ukrainian security is ongoing, and Canada’s involvement will take some form.
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John Q. Hosedrinker