Ukraine experienced a series of attacks on February 22, as Russian forces launched drone and missile strikes across various regions, including Kyiv and Kropyvnytskyi. Explosions were reported in Poltava and Mykolaiv, with significant damage occurring in Kyiv, where a fire broke out on the roof of a high-rise building, according to Kyiv Military Administration Chief Timur Tkachенко. The extent of casualties is still being assessed, while Polish fighter jets were deployed in response to the attacks.
Context: This recent assault follows a major attack on February 17, which targeted energy infrastructure and resulted in power outages affecting five regions, including issues with heating in Sumy and Odesa.
Tragic Incident in Lviv
On the evening of February 21, two explosions rocked Lviv, audible even from outside the city. These detonations occurred shortly after police responded to a call. Lviv Mayor Andriy Sadovyi confirmed the death of a 23-year-old police officer and reported that 15 others were injured, some critically. Authorities are treating the incident as a terrorist attack.
Context: Local reports indicate that the blasts occurred near the Magnus shopping center, prompting a swift response from law enforcement and emergency services. Several buildings sustained damage, including broken windows and façades, alongside a patrol car and civilian vehicle.
Global Solidarity for Ukraine
In various cities worldwide, peaceful demonstrations took place in support of Ukraine, coinciding with the upcoming fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Events were held in Washington, Paris, London, and Düsseldorf, among others. Czech President Petr Pavel attended a rally in Prague, expressing gratitude to the Czech people for their ongoing support. A gathering at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington also aimed to honor and support Ukraine.
Context: These demonstrations are part of a broader effort to maintain international attention on Ukraine, with activists and organizations urging continued assistance and fundraising for those affected by the conflict.
Military Update from Ukraine
Ukrainian Armed Forces Commander Oleksandr Syrskyi stated in an interview with Le Monde that 97% of Kupiansk in Kharkiv Oblast remains under Ukrainian control, despite Russian claims. He noted that Pokrovsk in Donetsk has withstood Russian attempts at capture for 19 months. Syrskyi emphasized that Ukrainian forces are focused on preventing further Russian advances and regaining territory where possible.
Context: According to Syrskyi, Russian military losses have been significant, with estimates of around 418,000 troops lost in 2025 alone. He highlighted the daily impact of Ukrainian operations, which reportedly incapacitate between 1,000 and 1,100 Russian soldiers.
Sanctions Update from the EU
In a related development, Greece and Malta have expressed opposition to a key provision in the European Union’s proposed 20th sanctions package against Russia, which aims to ban services related to the transport of Russian oil and petroleum products. This measure could potentially cost Russia at least $17 billion in revenue by the end of 2026.
Context: The EU’s inability to finalize this sanctions package on February 20 has delayed further discussions, with a meeting scheduled for February 25. A preliminary meeting of EU foreign ministers will take place on February 23 to revisit the issue.
Ukraine faces intensified military attacks from Russia, with significant incidents reported in Kyiv and Lviv. As the fourth anniversary of the invasion approaches, global demonstrations in support of Ukraine highlight ongoing international solidarity. Meanwhile, military updates indicate Ukrainian forces maintain control over key areas despite Russian advances, while EU sanctions discussions are complicated by dissenting member states.