On February 24, 2022, the Russian military launched its offensive against Kyiv, aiming to capture the Ukrainian capital swiftly. Columns of troops advanced, but faced fierce resistance from Ukrainian defenders, which led to tragic consequences for civilians caught in the conflict. This initial push by Russian forces has become emblematic of the larger struggle and resistance shown by Ukraine during this full-scale invasion.
Approximately 40,000 Russian soldiers crossed the border, advancing with scores of armored vehicles, tanks, and aircraft. According to TSN correspondent Serhiy Morgun, remnants of this military hardware now lie scorched and abandoned on the outskirts of Kyiv, marking the battlefield where hopes of capturing the city within three days were dashed.
Initially, the Russian troops attempted to overrun the defenses on their way to Kyiv, forming orderly columns. They were met not with the expected triumph, but rather with overwhelming fire from Ukrainian artillery and drone strikes, particularly from the Bayraktar TB2 drones. Morgun recalls how they anticipated smooth progress until they encountered the fierce opposition near Kyiv, especially as they took roads leading from Chernobyl toward Bucha and Gostomel.
"Although it may seem easy, it was anything but, as the Russians had almost unlimited personnel and weaponry, comprising well-trained units as analysts later explained," Morgun stated. The Ukrainian forces had to quickly establish defensive positions on higher ground along key roads, detonate all crossing points, and uphold their defensive strategy against persistent Russian tactics, which included relentless assaults even on blown-up bridges.
One of the most brutal engagements took place at the tiny village of Moshchun, where combat continued unyieldingly. The entirety of Moshchun's buildings fell, no structure left intact. With military victories elusive, Russian forces resorted to shocking violence against the civilian population, employing torture and murder indiscriminately. Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing stories of executions taking place without reason, with 637 corpses discovered alone in Bucha, including dozens of children, as reported by the local prosecution. Overall, around 1,600 civilians were killed across the region, as Russians systematically targeted vehicles evacuations through previously agreed-upon humanitarian corridors.
Reports from the region confirm these stark realities, as the brutalities highlighted both the determination of the Russian forces and the horrific impact of their advance on Ukrainian civilians.
Despite these tragic events, Ukrainian defenders, including armed forces, territorial defense units, and volunteer battalions, began counter-offensives by late March. Villages such as Moshchun and Irpin, numerous towns, and areas around Chernobyl saw fierce fighting yet again as Ukrainian forces pushed back against the invaders. Resistance intensified, proportions of Ukrainian casualties declined, and the Russian troops faced staggering losses. Morgun emphasizes, "By the end of March, the Russians were not just pushed out of Kyiv region—they suffered colossal losses and had to retreat, showing once and for all: Kyiv is defended, and so is Ukraine!"
This backdrop fueled confidence for Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky, facing numerous ultimatums from Russia, urged the nation to maintain its course. During an interview with 1+1, he insisted on the necessity not to yield to pressure but to focus on strengthening military capacities and negotiating security guarantees with international partners, without compromising the country's interests.
"This is not the first ultimatum from Russia. It’s the same rhetoric we hear weekly. We must remain steadfast and bolster our defense," asserted Zelensky, emphasizing the importance of enhancing weapon production and collaborating with allies without directly engaging Russia.
Such steadfastness among Ukraine's leadership and stakeholders appears to have galvanized the country amid the crucible of this war. Rather than submitting to Russian demands, Ukraine aims to forge its path even as discussions persist across Europe and the U.S. about potential pathways to peace. Encouragingly, there is confidence among Ukrainian officials about completing the defense and subsequent strategies as long as support remains from international allies.
The offensive on Kyiv illustrated not just military strategies but also the harrowing human cost of war, reinforcing the imperative for international dialogue and assistance as Ukraine continues to navigate perilous waters. The fight for Kyiv was more than just about territory; it became symbolic of resistance against aggression and the indomitable spirit of Ukrainians ready to defend their homeland. "While we face challenges, we stand strong together with our allies—and together, I believe we will prevail," concluded Zelensky.