On February 25, 2026, the United Kingdom delivered a powerful statement to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) on the fourth anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. The speech underscored the UK’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and called for an end to what it described as a brutal and unlawful war that has left over 1.2 million Russian casualties.

Humanitarian Toll and Escalating Attacks

The UK highlighted the alarming scale of Russian military operations in 2025, which saw nearly 55,000 drones launched—more than four times the number used in 2024—and over 1,800 missiles fired. These attacks killed 2,514 civilians and injured more than 12,000 people, while leaving millions without heat or power during subzero temperatures.

According to the UK’s statement, the humanitarian impact of these actions is devastating. The attacks have not only caused direct harm but have also deepened the ongoing crisis, with long-term consequences for regional security and stability.

Despite these challenges, Ukraine continues to defend its territory and protect its people. The UK praised Ukraine’s resilience and noted its commitment to peace, including its engagement in negotiations and agreement to proposals for a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire.

UK’s Dual Test for Peace

The UK emphasized two key tests for a sustainable peace: the principles test and the behavioural test. The principles test requires Russia to commit to shared obligations such as respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-use of force. The behavioural test focuses on Russia’s actions, including the withdrawal of forces, cessation of missile and drone strikes, and the avoidance of imposed settlements.

According to the UK’s statement, the evidence available to the OSCE enables definitive conclusions on both tests. Russia’s continued aggression and failure to comply with international law have undermined efforts to achieve lasting peace.

“The evidence available to this Forum enables definitive conclusions on both tests,” the UK’s statement said, adding that Russia’s actions have violated international law and gravely undermined regional security.

Call for End to War and Respect for Sovereignty

The UK reiterated its call for Russia to cease its illegal war and withdraw all its forces from Ukraine’s internationally recognized territory. It also urged Russia to engage in good faith to achieve a just and lasting peace.

“The UK takes no satisfaction in the loss of Russian lives,” the statement said, noting that these are avoidable and tragic deaths, with young men sent into harm’s way as a result of a war driven by President Putin’s maximalist ambitions, not the interests of the Russian people themselves.

The UK acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Ukrainian people over the past four years and called for continued international support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. It also emphasized that the OSCE must continue to play a role in upholding these principles.

The UK’s statement came as the OSCE continues to monitor the situation in Ukraine and document the consequences of the illegal war. With the war entering its fourth year, the international community faces increasing pressure to find a resolution that ensures lasting peace and stability in the region.

As the OSCE and other international bodies continue to push for a diplomatic solution, the UK remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine, both militarily and diplomatically, and will continue to use this Forum to uphold the principles Russia seeks to dismantle.