Three Years On: Why Ukraine’s Fight for Sovereignty Still Matters
Opinion piece by Ambassador Paul Fox.
As we approach three years since Russia’s unprovoked and illegal invasion of Ukraine, it is essential to reflect on its profound impact. Throughout, the United Kingdom has been resolute in its support for Ukraine, standing firm in defence of sovereignty, democracy, and the international rules-based order.
Three years ago, Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine fundamentally altered Europe’s security landscape, marking the largest military assault on our continent since World War II. Millions of Ukrainians have been displaced, tens of thousands have lost their lives, and relentless Russian attacks have targeted hospitals, homes and schools. In the face of this savage assault, Ukrainians have continued to defend their country with unparalleled ingenuity and courage.
Putin expected a swift victory. Instead, he is faced with a catastrophic failure on all fronts, with devastating consequences.
Russia has sustained more than 840,000 casualties and faces mounting domestic challenges. Inflation has surged, with basic goods becoming unaffordable for many Russians. The oil industry – the foundation of Putin’s war machine – is under relentless pressure from Western sanctions, and interest rates have spiked to a record 21%.
We cannot allow Putin’s violation of European security and disregard for international law to become the norm. This is not an endless war. The Russian economy is creaking, and its military is weakened. On the battlefield, Ukraine has retaken a third of the land seized since 2022, continues to hold its own against Russian forces and has troops on Russian soil. Ukrainian troops have exposed vulnerabilities in Kursk, destroyed a significant proportion of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, and resumed maritime exports essential for global food security.
As Russia struggles, now is the time to double down on our support for Ukraine. From the outset, the UK has been at the forefront of international efforts to assist Ukraine and has already committed £12.8 billion in military, economic, and humanitarian support since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. We have provided crucial support, from air defence systems and tanks to intelligence-sharing and training for tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops. Our new UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership, signed earlier this year, demonstrates our enduring commitment to stand with Ukraine for generations to come. As Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently made clear, supporting Ukraine is not just about military aid – it is about reinforcing European security, deterring future aggression, and ensuring that Britain and its allies remain safe in the decades ahead.
At the same time, we are intensifying our pressure on Russia.
The UK has implemented the most severe package of sanctions ever imposed on a major economy. These measures target Russia’s military supply chains, its energy revenues, and those who continue to profit from this illegal war.
The 24th of February marks a grim and sombre milestone, but we must not falter. We must remain steadfast and resolute, providing Ukraine with the support it needs to secure its sovereignty and restore peace. We all want to reach a durable peace as soon as possible, no one more so than Ukraine. Russia could end this barbaric war tomorrow by withdrawing its forces and ending its illegal invasion, but we’ve seen no sign yet of Putin abandoning his goal of subjugating Ukraine. Ukraine’s voice must be at the heart of any peace talks – it is for Ukraine to decide when and how it engages in negotiations.
Hungary, like the UK, understands the profound value of sovereignty. Its own history is a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of oppression. We hope that shared experience reinforces our collective commitment to supporting Ukraine in its struggle to defend that same right today.
A just and lasting peace is vital for Ukraine and for wider Euro-Atlantic and international security and prosperity. It is only possible if we continue to show strength and provide Ukraine with the support it needs to defend itself against continued Russian aggression. The UK stands with Ukraine today, tomorrow, and for generations to come. In defending Ukraine, we are defending the principles that underpin our own security: the right of nations to choose their own path and live free from aggression.
Ukraine must prevail.
And the UK will be by its side, as a friend, a partner, and an ally, every step of the way.
Cover photo: British Embassy Budapest
