During a ceremony at NATO headquarters, the NATO Secretary General underscored that despite the posturing of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, Russia has not achieved its battlefield ambitions. He emphasized that the Ukrainian people deserve a fair and lasting peace, which is intrinsically linked to the security of the entire NATO alliance. He described Ukrainians as a nation of quiet heroes, bearing the burden of war, where both civilians and soldiers are currently enduring tremendous hardship due to the ongoing conflict.

The Secretary General called for the continued provision of military, financial, and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, asserting that such support is vital for the country to defend itself against Russian terror and to maintain stability along its front lines. He noted that there is a crucial need for Ukraine to receive increased backing to withstand pressures from Russia, which continues to conduct its aggression both on the ground and from the air.

Furthermore, this sentiment of support for Ukraine was palpable in Brussels, where commemorative events also took place. Notably, a video installation was created in the Grand Place, with a countdown projected onto the town hall, marking the significant moment four years ago when the conflict began, drawing attention to the ongoing situation and the necessity of international solidarity with Ukraine.