Steinmeier: “Ukraine is not alone”
The war in Ukraine has been going on for three years, with devastating consequences for the country. Germany is also commemorating the victims of Russian aggression.
Berlin (dpa) – On the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier recalled the suffering of the population, but also their resilience. “Three years have passed since the watershed moment of 24 February 2022 – three years of suffering, violence and loss for the people of Ukraine. But also three years of determined defence of freedom and sovereignty,” said the German head of state. The people of Ukraine were not only fighting for their territory, he said: “They are fighting for democracy, for self-determination, for a free Europe – all the values that are fundamental to us as well.” Germany would continue to support Ukraine with humanitarian and military aid, said the Federal President, as well as providing assistance and protection for refugees. Germany would stand by Ukraine in its reconstruction efforts, too, said Steinmeier. “Ukraine is not alone,” the Federal President emphasised.
On the anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, numerous events are planned across Germany to commemorate the victims, sending out a message of peace. These include mourning demonstrations, church prayers and official remembrance ceremonies.
On 24 February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered his troops to invade neighbouring Ukraine at dawn. Since then the country has faced an existential threat. There are no exact figures, but estimates suggest the number of war casualties is in the tens of thousands – possibly even in the hundreds of thousands.
See here for information on how Germany is supporting Ukraine.