A symbolic ceremony marking four years since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine took place at NATO Headquarters on February 24, 2026.

Head of the Mission of Ukraine to NATO Alyona Getmanchuk addressing the audience stressed that today Allies’ support not only saves lives but also strengthens Ukraine’s position at the negotiating table, increases pressure on Russia, and thus makes peace more likely.

"A peace backed by real security guarantees that will make it impossible for today’s children, in a few years, to be forced to take up arms to defend their land. Like those who were children building LEGO when Russia began its war in Donbas twelve years ago and are today fighting on the front line. That’s why when we say that we do not want to pass this war on to the next generation, we are talking about very concrete, specific things.," said the Head of Ukrainian Mission.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also spoke, addressing the Permanent Representatives of Allies, representatives of the International Staff, NATO Military Staff, and partners. He confirmed that NATO will stand with Ukraine throughout all the challenges ahead.

After the ceremony, a symbolic installation titled VOLIA by Oleksii Say was unveiled at NATO HQ. The sculpture is composed of letters salvaged from the welcome sign of Liubymivka, a village seized by Russian forces and later liberated by Ukrainian troops. The sign had been heavily damaged by Russian artillery and close-quarters combat.

Following the ceremony, a special meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council marking four years since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine took place. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the audience.

In her address to the NATO Permanent Representatives, the Head of the Mission of Ukraine to NATO, Alyona Getmanchuk, emphasised that strengthening air defence remains Ukraine’s top priority today; that any progress on the peace negotiations track should not be a reason to slow down assistance to Ukraine; and that Ukraine is already a valuable asset to the Alliance.