In a strong message of hope on the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Zelensky declared today that “2023 will be the year of victory.”
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Zelensky posted an emotive film on social media depicting “one year of tears” and scenes of suffering, anguish, faith, and unity from the war-torn nation.
The invasion of Ukraine by Russia
The invasion of Ukraine by Russia began on February 24, 2022, just minutes after President Vladimir Putin launched a “special military operation” on Europe’s second-largest country.
In accordance with the most recent data from the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), since the Russian incursion on February 24, 2018, at least 8,000 non-combatants have been confirmed dead and approximately 13,300 injured. Men made up 61.1% of confirmed civilian casualties, and women made up only 16.9%, according to the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission (HRMMU).
The second worst global tragedy involving displacement can be attributed to this war. There are about 6.3 million Ukrainians seeking refuge in Europe. An additional 6.6 million people have been internally displaced within the country.
Zelensky presented medals to his valiant soldiers
At a memorial ceremony in Kyiv, Zelensky presented medals to his valiant soldiers.
Ukrainians hold remembrances around their devastated country as the terrible war begins its second year. On Friday morning in the Ukrainian capital’s St. Sophia Cathedral, Zelensky honored his valiant soldiers in a touching and emotional service.
He gave medals to the families of the deceased as well as to military personnel and officers. Priests lead peace prayers during one of the rituals in the devastated village of Bucha.
On February 24 of last year, in what was perceived as retaliation for Kyiv’s turn towards the West, Putin shocked the world by moving troops across the border.
“Evil is still present, and the conflict continues.”- Zelensky
Zelensky hosts a news conference to commemorate the difficult achievement as the conflict with Putin’s army continues.
Zelensky declared on Thursday that “evil is still present, and the conflict continues. Nonetheless, we are certain that we will prevail in the end.” Throughout a “year of anguish, sadness, faith, and unity,” according to Zelensky, valiant Ukrainians had shown that they were “invincible.” “On February 24th, millions of us took a decision,” he remarked.
“Not a white flag, but a blue and yellow one. “Not running, but facing. struggling and defying. It was a year filled with suffering, grief, faith, and harmony. “And we continued to be unbeatable this year. We are confident that 2023 will mark the year of our triumph!” Ukraine “will never rest until the Russian killers receive just punishment,” the lionheart leader declared.
Moreover, Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of Kyiv, declared that Ukraine will “overcome everything and win” its conflict with Russia. Zelensky’s men are currently preparing for a Russian spring onslaught after the war decimated wide tracts of Ukraine and forced millions of people to flee their homes.
The Russians’ hopes for an easy triumph were dashed
Deluded Putin anticipated that once his troops invaded Ukraine last year, he would crush it in three days. With the hope of securing a quick triumph by capturing Kyiv and “decapitating” the government, he gave the order for his soldiers to invade Ukraine.
The Russians’ hopes for an easy triumph were dashed by the valiant Ukrainian resistance, and now approximately 150,000 of Vlad the Impaler’s warriors are buried in the ground. The first few months of the conflict, according to Zelensky, “changed how the world saw Ukraine.” He stated: “In three days, it didn’t fall. The second army of the world was defeated by it!”
After a year of devastating losses, Russia was obliged to alter its strategy and now intends to exhaust Ukrainian forces in a protracted trench war, according to the UK Ministry of Defence.
Moreover, Ukrainian intelligence has issued a warning about a potential missile strike barrage from Russia. Thousands of soldiers are reportedly preparing for the assault. People in Ukraine are preparing for an onslaught that will comprise 1,800 tanks, 3,950 armoured vehicles, 400 fighter jets, and 300 helicopters that are arriving from Russia.
Putin is reportedly “terribly afraid” as he commemorates the first anniversary of his invasion, according to former FSB Director General Yevgeny Savostyanov.
“Putin clearly comprehends the mood of individuals who have lost everything because of him,” he remarked. “Presently, Putin is utterly terrified. He is cognizant of his predicament.” The Russian dictator, according to Savostyanov, “clings on any opportunity to win” at the moment. Russian forces must “immediately” and “unconditionally” withdraw from Ukraine, the UN ruled on Thursday.