ISLAMABAD: The European Union Delegation, Team Europe, and the Embassy of Ukraine on Wednesday marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine with a solemn ceremony reaffirming support for Kyiv’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Hosted at the Embassy of the Republic of Poland, the event featured a documentary screening and photographic exhibition portraying the war’s devastating toll on Ukrainian civilians. Diplomats, politicians, journalists, think-tank representatives, human rights activists, NGO members, and civil society leaders attended the gathering in a show of solidarity with Ukraine.
In a joint statement, the EU Delegation, Team Europe, and the Ukrainian Embassy strongly condemned Russia’s continued aggression, particularly attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure during winter. They termed the strikes unacceptable and in violation of international humanitarian law.
The statement called on Russia to halt hostilities, withdraw its forces, and engage in meaningful peace negotiations. It noted that the European Union has committed an additional €90 billion in support of Ukraine and continues to impose sanctions aimed at holding Moscow accountable.
Ukrainian Ambassador Markiian Chuchuk, reflecting on “Four Years of Ukraine’s Struggle for Freedom,” highlighted the war’s heavy human cost, citing over one million Russian casualties, tens of thousands of Ukrainian deaths, the abduction of children, and the displacement of millions.
He denounced what he described as Russia’s imperial ambitions and said Ukraine remained committed to peace but stressed that genuine negotiations require political will from both sides—something he said was lacking in Moscow. Ambassador Chuchuk thanked Pakistan for its principled stance and urged Islamabad to play an active role in advancing a just peace through its position on the UN Security Council.
EU Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis, speaking on behalf of Team Europe, praised Ukraine’s resilience and reiterated Europe’s unwavering backing. He condemned Russian attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure, which have left millions without electricity and heating during winter.
Karoblis said the EU would maintain economic pressure on Russia, including reducing energy imports and banning refined petroleum products, while also confronting hybrid threats such as cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns. He underscored Pakistan’s potential role in multilateral efforts to push Russia toward credible peace talks.
German Ambassador Ina Lepel reaffirmed Europe’s continued support, referencing the €90 billion assistance package and condemning alleged Russian war crimes and humanitarian fallout from strikes on energy facilities. She said Ukraine was prepared for serious negotiations while accusing Russia of maintaining maximalist demands.
Polish Ambassador Maciej Pisarski also condemned recent strikes on residential areas and key infrastructure, describing them as deliberate attempts to inflict civilian suffering. He reiterated Poland’s full solidarity with Ukraine and called for an immediate end to the war.
A statement from the Polish Embassy warned that Russia’s aggression threatens global security, disrupts energy and food supplies, and undermines international stability. Speakers collectively stressed that ending the war would require sustained diplomatic, military, and humanitarian support for Ukraine, accountability for alleged war crimes, and coordinated global efforts to prevent further destabilisation.
