President Klaus Iohannis sent on Friday a message on the one-year anniversary of the outbreak of Russia’s aggression war against Ukraine, stating that Romania will continue to support Ukraine and the Ukrainian people as long as needed, which is our country’s „firm commitment”, according to Agerpres.

„We will continue to help Ukraine and the Ukrainian people as long as needed. This is Romania’s firm commitment. The war has taught us another lesson, that of solidarity and unity. Together we showed that we are strong and stand up to the Russian aggression. Ukraine must win this battle, and Russia must be held accountable for the crimes committed and the lives destroyed. Dear Ukrainians, you are not alone! You have a reliable friend in Romania, who supports you in this unjust struggle! It is our responsibility, of all of us, to contribute to victory and to building a better, peaceful future! Romania is and will stay by Ukraine’s side!,” the head of the state said in a video message.

He showed that one year ago, Russia launched a brutal attack on Ukraine, without any justification, but the Ukrainian people impressed through their courage, strength and determination in defending their country and freedom.

„Dear Romanians, on the morning of February 24, 2022, exactly one year ago, we saw how our present and future can change in an instant. An independent nation, a neighboring state – Ukraine – was attacked cruelly, with no justification whatsoever, by Russia. Innocent people lost their lives, lost their loved ones, lost their homes, had their schools and hospitals destroyed and had to flee the war to save themselves and their children. Throughout this time, however, the Ukrainian people impressed the entire world with the courage, strength and determination shown in defending their country and freedom, repelling the aggression of the Russian enemy forces,” the head of the state said.

President Iohannis emphasizes that „by defending their country and freedom, the Ukrainian people protect our values and freedom, protect our security, that of Romanians and of the entire Europe”.

„The struggle of the Ukrainian people is our struggle too! From the very first day, Romania has been at the side of the Ukrainian people, and the Romanians have shown the whole world what offering support and opening the door of your home to the women and children who have lost their homes means, helping with an open heart all those who are fleeing the horrors of war. Citizens and authorities, we all mobilized to provide a fast response and support Ukraine in its great challenge,” Iohannis went on, thanking all Romanians for the solidarity and empathy shown.

„You have proven that the Romanians are neighbors and partners you can rely on,” the head of the state says in the conclusion of his message.

Agerpres