ISLAMABAD: The third anniversary of the Russian attack on Ukraine was observed here on Monday by the European Union with the display of a documentary highlighting sufferings faced by the people of Ukraine.

The event was organised by the embassy of Poland with the support of the embassies of the Czech Republic, France, Germany and the European Union delegation. Among others, the British high commissioner to Pakistan also participated in the event.

The documentary “Culture vs. War” by Kostiantyn and Vlada Liberov, former wedding photographers, documents the impact of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine since February 24, 2022. It focused on continued sufferings and large scale damage faced, as the civilians in the Eastern regions of Ukraine prepare to face the fourth year of war.

A photo exhibition by Kostiantyn, Vlada Liberov, and Serhii Mykhalchuk, showcased the sufferings of war’s destruction, leaving a deep impression on attendees.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador of Ukraine to Pakistan Markian Chuchuk said that the three years of Russian war on Ukraine had tested the resilience of the Ukrainian people, but failed to break them.

“Since 2014, Russia has violated over 400 bilateral agreements with Ukraine and 80 international accords, including the UN Charter, the Helsinki Accords and the Budapest Memorandum. Lasting peace requires firm international guarantees, which Ukraine is diligently pursuing with our allies,” Mr Chuchuk said.

He added, “We welcome any constructive peace initiative, provided they adhere to two principles that no decisions regarding Ukraine shall be made without Ukraine’s involvement, and full adherence to the UN Charter, respecting Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

The ambassador added that estimates suggested over one million military personnel from both sides of the frontline have been killed or wounded though precise figures remain uncertain.

“Despite all this, Ukraine has stood strong; we have fought back against a powerful nation that has huge resources, including nuclear weapons. We retain control over 82 per cent of our territory - a testament to the courage of our citizens and the invaluable support of the international community.”

Maciej Pisarski, Ambassador of Poland to Pakistan, highlighted the commitment of his country to support Ukraine.

“We stand with Ukraine because we cherish values, which underpin humanity, peace, and equal rights for all nations,” he said, adding, “We have opened our doors to Ukrainian refugees, we have sent humanitarian assistance and helped sustaining the Ukrainian economy and we also have sent weapons, war materials, and ammunition to help the Ukrainian armed forces defend their nation.”

Published in Dawn, February 25th, 2025