Ukraine Marks 1,000 Days of War, Vows 'Never Submit' as Trump Return Raises Support Concerns

Nov 19, 2024, 08:56 AM

Ukraine marked 1,000 days since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion on November 19, 2024. The conflict, which began on February 24, 2022, has resulted in an estimated 1 million deaths and displaced several million people. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi stated that 'for 1,000 days, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been confronting the enemy on the front line, which stretches over 1,000 kilometers.' Despite initial expectations that Kyiv would fall within days, Ukraine's resistance has remained steadfast, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declaring, '1000 days together. 1000 days of Ukraine.' The capital, Kyiv, remains under constant threat, besieged by drone and missile strikes. International support continues, with the United Kingdom confirming that 50,000 Ukrainian troops have been trained through Operation Interflex, a UK-led program extended through 2025. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen commented, 'In 2022, Russia thought its full-scale invasion would end in days. 1,000 days later, Ukraine bravely resists.' As Ukraine braces for a third consecutive freezing winter, humanitarian needs remain critical, and the country's energy infrastructure is severely strained. The Kremlin has escalated its nuclear sabre-rattling, but Ukraine has vowed to 'never submit' to Russian aggression. International leaders have called for a just and lasting peace in accordance with the United Nations Charter and international law. Meanwhile, Ukraine is preparing for a potential shift in U.S. leadership, with officials anticipating Donald Trump to reclaim the White House in January. This development has raised concerns about future U.S. support for Ukraine. The international community, however, continues to assert that support for Ukraine will endure, with commitments to stand with Ukraine 'for as long as it takes.'