Andrii Kuzmenko & Neerav Patel
One thousand days have passed since the Russian Federation launched its full-scale aggression against Ukraine, igniting one of Europe’s bloodiest and most protracted wars in decades. This conflict has become an existential test for Ukraine. Each passing day serves as a testament to the Ukrainian people’s unwavering determination to fight for independence and freedom. The war has tested the global community’s ability to unite in defence of justice and shared ideals.
The words of Sir Winston Churchill, spoken on June 4, 1940, during Britain’s darkest days of World War II, have found new meaning in Ukraine: “We shall fight… We shall never surrender.” These words have inspired Ukrainian warriors in their relentless quest for freedom, echoing across generations.
Russia’s miscalculations
When Russia launched its invasion; it believed that Ukraine would crumble instantly, the large and invincible empire sweeping aside the helpless Ukrainian people. President Putin’s plans have failed miserably: he is now approaching the fourth year of a war that he thought would take only days. Thanks to the heroism of Ukraine’s soldiers, the courage of civilians, and support from the international community, Ukraine has withstood the onslaught and become a symbol of resilience.
Although the war is now approaching its fourth year, Russia has not fully realized its strategic objectives, and the country continues to bear the heavy toll of the ongoing conflict. Russia has faced significant losses in both personnel and military equipment, resulting in a tremendous human cost. Reports indicate that more than 700,000 Russian soldiers have been affected, either through injuries or fatalities. Domestically, economic challenges are becoming more pronounced, with increases in gas prices and rising bankruptcies. Military expenditure has overtaken social spending for the first time in post-Soviet history, indicating the strain on the nation’s resources. Additionally, Russia’s GDP per capita now lags behind that of all EU countries, highlighting the broader economic impacts of the war. The consequences have been severe for both the people and the country’s broader stability.
The role of international support
A decisive factor in Ukraine’s resistance has been the robust support from international partners, and those standing up for the rule of law. Among these, the State of Qatar stands out for its principled leadership, its commitment to working toward a just and lasting peace, and an approach that respects the UN Charter and the protection of civilians. Doha has provided political solidarity and humanitarian aid, including health and education infrastructure, drinking water, and humanitarian services, and announced $100m of support in July this year.
Throughout these 1,000 days of war, Ukraine has faced overwhelming hardship. Russian aggression has led to the loss of thousands of lives, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and deep human tragedies—one of the most painful being the forced deportation of Ukrainian children to Russia. In this area, Qatar’s deep expertise and commitment to mediation and humanitarian support has made it an invaluable intermediary in efforts to bring these children home. We are grateful to Qatar for these tireless efforts to reunite families. This humanitarian work is of profound significance. We hope that through continued partnership even more positive outcomes will follow.
Ukraine also deeply values the support it receives from partners such as the United Kingdom. This assistance is multifaceted, covering critical social and military needs, with a focus on ensuring Ukraine’s resilience. The UK has provided more than $12 billion in military, economic and humanitarian support to date.
The war Russia has unleashed against Ukraine is not only a tragedy but also a profound lesson for the world. The resilience of the Ukrainian people, the support from forward-thinking nations, and the unity of international partners—foremost among them the European Union, the United Kingdom, and other allies—demonstrate that truth, freedom, and justice will ultimately prevail.
Ukraine’s vision for the future
Ukraine continues to fight for a future where every child is with their family, every family is in their home, and every nation is free and independent. This is a vision which rejects illegitimate wars of conquest, and in which no state can impose its will upon weaker neighbours. This future, grounded in solidarity and cooperation, will emerge through nations that prioritise human life, rights, and freedom above all else.
Ambassador of Ukraine to Qatar Andrii Kuzmenko and the Ambassador of the UK to Qatar Neerav Patel.
