On the fourth anniversary of the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, the Board of the Krzyżowa Foundation for Mutual Understanding in Europe expresses its solidarity with the Ukrainian Nation and all those who suffer the consequences of this war. At the same time, we call for resistance against anti-Ukrainian propaganda and for unwavering support for Ukraine.
By defending itself against aggression, Ukraine also protects other nations of Europe, the entire political and cultural community of the West, and its values. It stands in defense of the key principles of the international order, including the inviolability of borders and the right of nations to self-determination.
Therefore, we express our profound gratitude to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and to all Ukrainian citizens participating in the defense effort at various levels—on the military, information, cultural, educational, medical, and food fronts.
We also express our admiration for the heroism and relentless will to defend, which remains unbroken despite the immense losses and suffering caused by the barbaric, criminal actions of the aggressor. We note with great appreciation that Ukrainian society defines its identity not through suffering, but through resistance, dignity, and responsibility for the future. It does not adopt the stance of a victim, but of active resistance against aggression. We also observe that Ukrainian society strives for a model of horizontal democracy based on the shared responsibility of citizens rather than authoritarian dominance. This tradition, deeply rooted in Ukrainian history, is consistent with the historical heritage of Krzyżowa and the values of our Foundation.
We firmly oppose narratives that relativize the responsibility of the Russian Federation for the war, incite resentment toward Ukraine, and present a naive vision of lasting peace at the cost of concessions to Russia. One cannot compare the aggressor and the defender of their homeland. The Russian Federation can end the hostilities by ceasing its aggression. If Ukraine were to stop its defense, it would lose the possibility of its continued existence as a sovereign state.
We also call upon all people of goodwill to persist in providing aid. Let us remember that the choice of attitudes and values has not only moral but also social and political significance, for their nature is contagious. Through our stance, we can increase either indifference and egoism or solidarity and responsibility within our society; either fear and doubt or faith and hope.
The support Ukraine needs is both material and spiritual. It includes military, financial, infrastructural, and medical assistance, including the rehabilitation of those affected. At the same time, it encompasses empathy, understanding, and respect for the experience of suffering. It is essential not to relativize, depreciate, or subject this suffering to moralizing judgment.
An important element of solidarity is the endurance of commitment. Ukrainian society needs not only immediate support but also the conviction that the European community will not succumb to fatigue or indifference. Ukraine's determination remains unchanged, and what is at stake is the future of an order based on human dignity, responsibility, and freedom.
On the fourth anniversary of the full-scale war, we confirm that the Krzyżowa Foundation for Mutual Understanding in Europe stands on the side of freedom, truth, and dignity. This solidarity is not merely an institutional position but a shared stance of our entire community—the board, employees, associates, volunteers, partners, as well as our program and advisory bodies. As a community connected to Krzyżowa, we declare that we will remain with Ukraine and its society in the spirit of responsible, long-term solidarity.
The Board of the Krzyżowa Foundation for Mutual Understanding in Europe
Dorota Krajdocha, Dr. habil. Robert Żurek
