On the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that European institutions were adorned with the colors of the Ukrainian flag as a gesture of solidarity and support.
In a post on social media platform X, von der Leyen stated, “Today we decorate our European institutions in the colors of Ukraine. Two colors that embody the spirit of courage. Two colors that burn with resistance. Four years after the onset of Russia’s full-scale war, these colors shine brighter than ever. Glory to Ukraine.”
This display of support is not a one-time event; EU institutions have consistently illuminated their buildings in blue and yellow on significant occasions, including the anniversary of the invasion, Ukraine’s Independence Day, and during the adoption of key decisions related to Ukraine’s European integration.
The conflict began on February 24, 2022, at 03:50, when Russia launched a large-scale military invasion of Ukraine, executing extensive missile strikes and crossing the border from multiple directions, including Belarus.
In the spring of 2022, Ukrainian defense forces successfully pushed back the Russian army from Kyiv, Chernihiv, and Sumy regions. Following the liberation of these areas, the world learned of numerous war crimes committed by Russian forces against civilians in towns such as Bucha and Irpin.
By the fall of 2022, Ukrainian troops had carried out successful counteroffensive operations in the east and south, reclaiming nearly all of Kharkiv Oblast and the right bank of the Kherson region, including the city of Kherson.
From 2023 to 2025, active combat transitioned into a difficult positional phase in eastern and southern Ukraine. Russia has systematically employed missile and drone attacks against both energy and civilian infrastructure, while Ukraine, with the support of its partners, continues to defend its territory and target military objectives within Russia and in the temporarily occupied Crimea.
European institutions marked the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine by displaying Ukrainian colors, reaffirming solidarity amidst ongoing conflict. This act symbolizes continued support for Ukraine in its struggle against aggression.