Skopje, 26 February 2024 (MIA) - United States Ambassador to North Macedonia, Angela Aggeler told the "Ukraine: Two Years of Heroism" conference on Monday that since the start of the war Ukrainian heroes continue to fight, that their courage and strength won small and big victories, in addition surviving heavy losses. Ukraine, she added, will with all our help, there is no other alternative.

"Not only did they stop a great enemy, they also stopped Russia's goods from entering the world market, they continue to import and export electricity and services, they reformed the country and are moving closer to membership in transatlantic institutions. Ukraine will win with all our help. There is no other alternative," Aggeler said at the conference in Skopje, organized by the Embassy of Ukraine.

Commitments, she added, could not be higher and bigger than even Ukraine's borders.

"Russia's illegal and brutal war reminds us of the threats posed by authoritarian regimes, the importance of defending ourselves from bullies, and fighting for freedom and democracy. Today, we stand again for the cause, peace and justice. The United States remains in place, in support of Ukraine and its citizens. Glory to Ukraine," Aggeler stressed.

The world watched with concern, sincerity and disbelief, the Ambassador noted, as Putin gathered his army at Ukraine's border in the winter of 2022, and two years ago we watched as the horrific and brutal invasion of Ukraine began.

"Putin and many others believed that Russia's military power would trample Kyiv in one week and overtake the country in one month. But, that did not happen. Ukraine along with the United States, NATO and other partners, including EU, stood up in resistance and said no. The Ukrainian people did not surrender. They fought. President Zelenskyy did not flee the country, but stayed and led. The West did not turn its back, we united our forces, and NATO grew instead of falling apart," Aggeler said.

EU Ambassador David Geer stressed that the Union is and will continue to be one of the greatest friends to the Ukrainian people. He reminded that 4.2 million Ukrainians use temporary protection in EU countries, as well as political support that includes the historic decision from December to open negotiations for EU accession, enormous financial, technical, and humanitarian aid, including military support of EUR 9 million.

Today's conference in Skopje marks two years since the start of the war in Ukraine. President Stevo Pendarovski, Ukrainian Ambassador to North Macedonia, ministers and other representatives addressed the first panel. ssh/sk/