Marking four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion, NATO Secretary General praises Ukraine as a nation of heroes

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Today (24 February 2026), NATO marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine at its headquarters in Brussels with a ceremony and a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council.

NATO continues to support Ukraine, and its right to exist as a sovereign, democratic country. NATO Allies have been providing unprecedented support to Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion, including 99 percent of all military aid. NATO’s command in Wiesbaden, NSATU, ensures delivery of support and training. NATO’s PURL initiative provides essential US military equipment to Ukraine with funding from Allies and partners. All of this support helps Ukraine defend itself today and will contribute to securing a future peace.

In his address, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, said: “We remember today – and every day – what Ukraine has endured; but while we pay tribute to those lost and those suffering, we also stand in hope, inspired by four years of unbroken resistance and unwavering coverage.” He highlighted that “despite Putin’s posturing, Russia has failed to meet their ambitions on the battlefield,” urging continued support to Ukraine. “NATO stood with Ukraine from the beginning; we stand with you today, and we will stand with you throughout the challenges ahead; it is imperative that Ukraine continues to get the military, financial and humanitarian aid it needs”.

Following the ceremony, which included remarks from Ukraine’s Ambassador to NATO and a moment of silence, Ambassadors met in the NATO-Ukraine Council. The meeting opened with a video address from President Zelenskyy, who thanked Allies for their support and highlighted the need for additional air defence, not least through PURL. During the meeting Allies expressed solidarity with Ukraine, noting commitments of further aid and underlining the aim of bringing the war to an end with a just and lasting peace.

The Secretary General also took part in an online meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Keir Starmer of the United Kingdom.