Key takeaways from the recent developments in Ukraine:

• World leaders, including EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, visited Kyiv to commemorate the third anniversary of Russia's invasion.
• Concerns rise about U.S. policy shifts under President Donald Trump, who has called Ukraine's president a "dictator" and is pushing for a peace deal with Russia that excludes Kyiv.
• European leaders emphasize that any peace negotiations must include Ukraine, as they vow continued military and financial support amidst ongoing Russian advances and attacks.

On February 24, Ukraine marked the somber occasion of the third anniversary of Russia's invasion, drawing the attention and support of numerous Western leaders who gathered in the capital, Kyiv. Among those present were European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who emphasized the importance of Ukraine's struggle as pivotal not just for the nation itself, but for the security of Europe as a whole. Von der Leyen stated, "We are in Kyiv today because Ukraine is Europe," underlining the continent's solidarity with Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy highlighted the "three years of resistance" exhibited by his country and reiterated the need for international support to ensure that Ukraine can defend itself effectively against Russian aggression. He called for security guarantees from Ukraine’s allies to prevent Russia's potential rearming in the future, especially concerning any discussions of a ceasefire.

The visit came at a turbulent time, as the political landscape shifts in the United States with Trump back in a position of power. His recent remarks have raised alarms among European leaders, wherein he categorically blamed Ukraine for the war and suggested the need for a peace settlement potentially unfavorable to Kyiv. In light of these developments, President Trump is set to engage in discussions with both British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron this week, who aim to advocate for an inclusive peace process that situates Ukraine at the negotiation table.

The absence of U.S. leadership during the Kyiv commemorations was noted, as Washington's commitment to Ukraine seems uncertain under the new administration. European Council President Antonio Costa announced plans for an urgent meeting of EU leaders to address the ongoing situation and bolster collective support for Ukraine.

While the Kremlin expressed intentions to continue its military advancements, Ukraine's armed forces have reported significant challenges, including a series of drone attacks from Russia that have severely targeted civilian areas. In response, European nations have reaffirmed their commitment to provide substantial military aid, as reflected in sanctions announced by the EU aiming to diminish Russia's military capabilities.

As the conversation surrounding the war evolves, both Ukrainian and European officials are vocal in stating that Ukraine must have a voice in all discussions concerning its future. As the conflict drags into a new year, world leaders assert that supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity remains a global necessity.

For more details on these developments, visit the Voice of America.