BRUSSELS, Feb 24 – The European Union will not rest until peace is restored in an independent, sovereign Ukraine, EU leaders said in a statement commemorating the anniversary of Russia’s invasion into Ukraine.

"One year ago, Putin's Russia started its brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. The Ukrainian people have shown incredible strength in defending their homeland and the core principles of international law against the Russian aggression. They have shown resolve in defending democracy and freedom, resilience in the face of hardship and dignity when confronted with Russia's crimes," the leaders said.