Two years ago, Ukraine was still reeling from the annexation of Crimea by Russia and the outbreak of a separatist insurgency in its eastern regions, which had already claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions of people. Today, Ukraine is still facing a war, but it has also achieved significant progress in defending its sovereignty and pursuing reforms, despite immense challenges and setbacks. As Ukraine marks the second year of the ongoing conflict in Donbas, it reflects on its successes and mourns its losses, while looking ahead to a future of peace and prosperity.
Successes
One of the most notable successes of Ukraine in the past two years has been its ability to withstand and repel Russian aggression, with the help of its military, volunteers, and international allies. Despite facing a well-equipped and well-trained adversary, Ukraine has managed to defend its borders and maintain its territorial integrity, including the liberation of several key cities and towns from separatist control. In July 2020, Ukraine received the status of Enhanced Opportunities Partner from NATO, which signaled a deeper cooperation and support from the Western military alliance.
Another success of Ukraine has been its progress in implementing reforms, particularly in the areas of anti-corruption, decentralization, and judicial reform. Despite facing resistance and obstacles from entrenched interests, Ukraine has managed to establish new institutions, laws, and practices that aim to root out corruption and strengthen democracy. In 2020, Ukraine also secured a new loan program from the International Monetary Fund, which will provide much-needed financial support for its economy and reforms.
Mourning
However, Ukraine’s successes have come at a steep cost, both in terms of human lives and social and economic hardships. Since the outbreak of the war in Donbas in 2014, more than 13,000 people have been killed, and more than 1.5 million people have been displaced from their homes. The conflict has also caused significant damage to infrastructure, public services, and the environment, especially in the areas directly affected by the fighting.
In addition, Ukraine has also suffered from the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated its existing challenges and vulnerabilities. The pandemic has strained the healthcare system, disrupted the economy, and forced many Ukrainians to adapt to new restrictions and norms. Despite these challenges, Ukraine has managed to cope with the pandemic, thanks to the efforts of its healthcare workers, volunteers, and government.
However, Ukraine’s successes have come at a steep cost, both in terms of human lives and social and economic hardships. Since the outbreak of the war in Donbas in 2014, more than 13,000 people have been killed, and more than 1.5 million people have been displaced from their homes. The conflict has also caused significant damage to infrastructure, public services, and the environment, especially in the areas directly affected by the fighting.
In addition, Ukraine has also suffered from the COVID-19 pandemic, which has exacerbated its existing challenges and vulnerabilities. The pandemic has strained the healthcare system, disrupted the economy, and forced many Ukrainians to adapt to new restrictions and norms. Despite these challenges, Ukraine has managed to cope with the pandemic, thanks to the efforts of its healthcare workers, volunteers, and government.
Looking Ahead
As Ukraine enters the second year of the war in Donbas, it faces many uncertainties and opportunities. On the one hand, the ceasefire that was agreed upon in July 2020 has held for the most part, but sporadic violations and provocations continue to occur. On the other hand, there are signs of potential progress, such as the renewed negotiations in the Normandy format and the possible involvement of the United States in the conflict resolution efforts.
In addition, Ukraine will continue to pursue its reforms and integration with the Euro-Atlantic community, which will require sustained efforts and commitment. Ukraine will also need to address its social and economic challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation, which are closely linked to the conflict and the legacy of the past.
As Ukraine marks the second year of the war, it remembers its fallen heroes and civilians, but it also looks forward to a future of peace, stability, and prosperity. The road ahead may be long and difficult, but Ukraine has shown that it has the resilience and determination to overcome its challenges and achieve its goals.
