On April 14, 2014, in response to the illegal annexation of Crimea and the threat of Russia seizing Ukraine’s eastern regions, the Anti-Terrorist Operation (ATO) was launched.
Russia attempted to replicate the Crimean scenario across eastern Ukraine, using local fringe groups and criminal networks to seize power. Between April 12 and 14, Russian saboteurs took control of cities in the northern Donetsk region and seized the city administration building in Mariupol.
At that stage, Russia relied on hybrid methods, avoiding the open deployment of regular forces. It counted on the activity of its supporters and the passivity of most Ukrainians. It miscalculated.
Ukrainians united to resist the aggressor. Volunteer and civilian support movements emerged. We proved that by standing together and supporting one another, we are capable of confronting any external force.
From the ATO to the Joint Forces Operation (JFO), and since 2022, resistance to the full-scale invasion. Ukraine’s war for independence continues. Throughout this time, Ukrainians have defended their freedom and the nation’s way of life, forged in the fire of war.