On 24 February 2025, the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion into Ukraine, Kyiv hosted the Support Ukraine Summit, which was attended by leaders of partner countries, diplomats, and representatives of international organizations.

The forum was attended by the leaders of Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, Spain, Canada, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden, the OSCE Secretary General, the French Minister for European Affairs, as well as the President of the European Commission and the President of the European Counci. In addition, a number of EU and NATO leaders joined the event online.

The summit was opened by President of Ukraine Volodymyr ZELENSKYI. He thanked partners for their unwavering support of our country in its struggle for freedom and independence. Emphasized importance of international solidarity in these crucial times.

The plenary session was addressed by foreign heads of state and government, Ukrainian officials, and representatives of Ukrainian regions at the forefront of the country’s defense. Among them was Sumy region, which was represented at the summit by Vice-Rector Ivan KOZII.

A city that has become a symbol of Ukrainian resilience is how the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andriy SYBIHA described Sumy, inviting the only representative of the region to speak at this large-scale event.

The SumDU vice-rector noted that despite current challenges, including destruction of one of the university’s buildings as a result of air attacks, the educational process goes on. “Russians are trying to destroy our future and block access to education. But thanks to courage of our defenders, support of the President of Ukraine and incredible resilience of our people, we continue to work and provide students with high-quality education. Thousands of young people are making plans for restoration and development of Ukraine,” – said Ivan KOZII.

He also emphasized importance of international support and cooperation, which gives hope for Ukraine’s post-victory reconstruction: “We have strong international educational and scientific ties, and these partnerships help us plan and implement future of the country, and ensure Ukraine’s development and progress after the war goes further. We thank the international community for support. We are grateful to our defenders for heroism and sacrifice. We thank the President for his attention to Sumy region. Together we will win!” – summarized Ivan KOZII.