The Ukrainian national flag flying in front of the Reichstag in Berlin on February 24, 2026, as Russia’s war in Ukraine enters another year, with no end in sight. In Berlin, this gesture is unmistakable and serves as a visual confirmation of solidarity from one of Kyiv’s most important European partners.
The story behind the picture
However, the image resonates far beyond the borders of the ongoing conflict. The Reichstag is deeply etched in the memory of the 20th century. In May 1945, during the Battle of Berlin, Soviet troops raised the Red Army banner on the same building, an event immortalized in one of the iconic World War II photographs, “Raising the Flag over the Reichstag” by Yevgeny Chaldei. The painting became a symbol of the defeat of Nazi Germany and the role played by the Soviet Union in ending the war in Europe.
Nearly eight decades later, another flag stands outside the same iconic building, this time representing Ukraine, a country that was once part of the Soviet Union and is now locked in a four-year conflict with Russia. Simple at first glance, the painting serves as a powerful historical reminder that the Reichstag witnessed turning points in European history, and continues to serve as a backdrop to its unfolding chapters.
Location and more
Location: Reichstag Building (Bundestag), Berlin, Germany
Event context: Anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine
Photographer: John MacDougall/AFP
Related news and context
Today, February 24, we commemorate the anniversary of Russia’s long war in Ukraine, the possible end of which is still in sight. While world leaders have tried to broker a peace deal in the region, only US President Donald Trump’s efforts have somehow proved beneficial. The two sides have reached the negotiating table, but diplomatic tensions between Russia and the West remain. The European Union has repeatedly expressed solidarity with Kyiv.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi said on the anniversary of the war that Russia “did not break the Ukrainians” nor did it win its war. His remarks come as the years-long invasion has severely tested the resolve of Kiev and its allies. In a show of support, more than a dozen senior European officials visited Kyiv to mark the anniversary that killed thousands and disrupted the lives of millions of Ukrainians. He added: “He did not win this war. We saved Ukraine and we will do everything to achieve peace. And to ensure justice.”
In a video address marking the anniversary, he also appealed to US President Donald Trump to visit Kyiv, adding that Ukraine will not betray its people in any negotiations with Russia.
