Exactly four years after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, commemorative events for the victims of the war are being held in Ukraine and other countries across the world. Commentators reflect on these four years of death, destruction, hardship and suffering in Ukraine, and on how the war could end.

On the day before the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Hungary has vetoed tougher sanctions against Russia at the EU foreign ministers' meeting. Together with Slovakia it accuses Ukraine of blocking the Druzhba pipeline. The 20th package of sanctions, which isow on hold, is directed against Russia's shadow fleet of oil tankers and energy revenues. A loan already approved by the EU summit is also in limbo.

Moscow's Gulag History Museum, which was initially closed in November 2024 due to alleged fire safety violations, willow be given aew thematic orientation. According to theewly appointed museum director it will be converted into a "memorial museum for the victims of the genocide of the Soviet people" and document Nazi war crimes during WWII.

After five postponements, the Romanian Constitutional Court finally approved the planned reform of pensions for judges and prosecutors last week. The current system provides for pensions of up to 5,000 euros per month and retirement from the age of 48. The implementation of the reform is a condition for the disbursement of EU funds.