Four years ago, when Russian tanks entered Ukraine, the Kremlin anticipated a swift victory that would break Ukrainian resistance, intimidate Europe into compliance, and reassert Moscow’s imperial power. Instead, as the war reached its fourth anniversary, the conflict resembled a predator losing its teeth against resilient prey. Ukraine endured, and Russia did not triumph.
Four Years of Resistance: Achievements, Losses and Challenges – A Commemoration in Brussels
Brussels hosted several commemorative events for the war’s 4th anniversary.
On February 24-25, the Belgian association “Ukraine-EU” held a film screening at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), showcasing movies with subtitles about the war:
- “On the Other Side of Peace” (30 min)
- “Cyborgs: Heroes Never Die” (120 min)
- “Mariupol: Chronicle of Hell” (120 min)
- “The Little People Who Unleashed a Great War”
- “Delayed Consequences”
- “Peaceful 21” (120 min)
The event included a book presentation of “A Story Worth Hearing” by physician and veteran Yevhen Dubrovskyi, panel discussions, and award ceremonies.
Three front-line combatants shared their experiences under enemy fire, including Olga Komant from Ukraine-EU (hello@ukraine-eu.com).
The film “On the Other Side of Peace” was particularly moving, as it posed a significant question to victims: ‘How did you experience February 24, the attack and invasion of Ukraine, and what are the consequences for you today?’ It resonated deeply with anyone familiar with the impact of historical tragedies like September 11.
The film’s message of suffering highlighted the human cost of February 24, 2022, offering a more profound narrative than expert analyses. Emotional testimonies allowed ordinary people to express the devastating effects of war. The victims’ direct communication in the film had a strong emotional impact, urging viewers to take action. Watch it HERE.
Other films, such as “Cyborgs: Heroes Never Die”, also offered significant insights and were available on YouTube.
Putin Biting Off More Than He Can Chew
Vladimir Putin sought to conquer Ukraine but has spent four years eroding his own power against a resistant adversary.
The invasion was intended to be decisive, with expectations of Ukraine’s rapid fall and global acceptance of Moscow’s actions. Putin’s ideological belief that Ukraine was not a real nation led to his first miscalculation. The existence and resistance of Ukrainians invalidated this notion, marking a strategic failure.
The failure to capture Kyiv was not just a tactical setback; it altered the war’s course. The conflict turned into a prolonged struggle, revealing Russia’s military inadequacies. Ukraine’s adaptability contrasted with Russia’s dwindling military credibility, representing the second lost tooth.
Economically, Russia’s assumption that Europe would succumb to internal pressures proved false. Sanctions isolated Russia, weakening its economic resilience, marking the third lost tooth.
The fourth lost tooth was narrative control. Initially framed as a heroic resistance against NATO, the narrative waned as Ukraine stood firm. Ukraine’s strengthened national identity undermined Moscow’s legitimacy.
Politically, the war strained Putin’s authority domestically. Though dissent was quelled, enduring questions about the war’s cost persisted, undermining his power.
What about the Future?
The future remains uncertain as Putin continues this costly venture against Ukraine, ignoring four years of evident failure.
Russia remains dangerous, yet it is viewed as a chronic risk rather than a respected power. European nations have learned to cope without Moscow’s influence.
The war exacted heavy tolls on both sides: loss of lives, destruction of cities, and disrupted futures. Ukraine’s endurance represents a strategic defeat for Russia, emphasizing survival over conquest.
For Putin, Ukraine was supposed to be a demonstrative victory. Instead, it became the stage for his diminishing power, as each failed attempt at domination weakened his position.
Four years on, Ukraine stands resilient, a critical shield for Europe. Putin, who aimed to conquer, has instead spent these years enduring the consequences of his unsustainable ambitions.
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