Dignitaries converge in Kyiv on second anniversary of full-scale invasion

In a symbolic show of solidarity, leaders from across the globe have gathered in Kyiv on the second anniversary of the full-scale invasion by Russia. Among the dignitaries arriving in the Ukrainian capital today are not only the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, but also the Prime Ministers of Italy, Canada, and Belgium. The presence of world leaders in Kyiv on the second anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion highlights international solidarity and collective support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing aggression. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived from the western border by train. Italy's government press office announced that later on Saturday, Prime Minister Meloni plans to initiate a video conference with the leaders of the G7, with Italy currently holding the presidency. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is also invited to join the discussion. The arrival of President Ursula von der Leyen was confirmed earlier, adding a significant diplomatic weight to the collective visit. In a tweet, President von der Leyen expressed that she arrived in Kyiv to mark the second anniversary of Russia's war against Ukraine and the exceptional resistance of the Ukrainian people.

In Kyiv to mark the anniversary of the 2nd year of Russia’s war on Ukraine.

And to celebrate the extraordinary resistance of the Ukrainian people.

More than ever, we stand firmly by Ukraine.
 
Financially, economically, militarily, morally.
 
Until the country is finally free. pic.twitter.com/ZLWMbOxVFh

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) February 24, 2024

It was unofficially reported on Friday that the visit of President von der Leyen and the Prime Minister of Belgium was anticipated. This week, it was officially confirmed that Ursula von der Leyen is being selected as the key candidate from her political group, and in the event of the EPP's victory in the elections, she is set to lead the European Commission for the second term.