Katarina Mathernova: Putin’s war hits 1,418 days, but Ukraine still stands

by Katarina Mathernova, the Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine

Source: Mathernová on Facebook

This week, Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine crossed a grim milestone: 1,418 days. Today it lasts longer than the Soviet Union fought in World War II.

Back then, the USSR was attacked, fought back, and — thanks to massive Western support — ended the war victorious. In fact, it then occupied half of Europe, including my homeland, for almost half a century.

Today, Putin chose this war. Planned it. Launched it. Owns it. And four years later, what does Russia have to show for it?

Tens of thousands of Ukrainians murdered. Over 6 million forced to flee their homes. Cities deliberately plunged into darkness and cold.

And right now — despite the international attempts at peace negotiations — Russia is cynically torturing Ukrainians — systematically attacking energy infrastructure, hospitals, and homes in a campaign designed to freeze, terrorize, and break the spirit of an entire nation.

And yet: Ukraine still stands. Around 80% of its internationally recognized territory remains free. Last year, Russia seized less than 1% of Ukraine’s land! At a cost far exceeding Soviet losses after 10 years in Afghanistan.

Yes, the fighting is brutal. Ukraine needs our support. But let’s be clear: time is not on Moscow’s side.

Russia’s economy is overheating. Oil revenues are shrinking. War reserves are draining. Regional budgets are collapsing. Recruitment bonuses are being cut. And the war is coming home to Russia — through Ukrainians deep strikes. The Russian Black Sea fleet is a shadow of itself, hiding remaining naval assets in Russian ports, having been pushed out of Crimea.

Putin tries to project strength. And is often very successful spreading his false narratives, even to Western audiences. But his system is under strain.

The West must not fall for Putin’s bluff. This is not the moment for Ukraine to fold. Sustained pressure on Russia — military, economic, political — works. History is clear: imperial wars fail when democracies stay united.

Ukraine is standing. Glory to Ukraine!