Russian President Vladimir Putin one year ago today announced his "special military operation in Ukraine".
A euphemism for a brutal war that has stolen thousands of civilian lives and is now entering its second bloody year.
Ukraine's Ambassador to New Zealand, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, told Tova O'Brien that Ukrainians are more united than ever before.
"If we stop fighting it is going to be the end of Ukraine," Myroshnychenko said.
Myroshnychenko is adamant the only way to stop the war is to stand up strong against Russia until they retreat out of Ukraine.
"We are ready to negotiate with the Russians when we drive them out of Ukraine when they completely withdraw from Ukraine including Crimea."
He told O'Brien Ukraine is very grateful for New Zealand's support so far and is looking forward to planning for the year ahead.
"It would be great to have New Zealand involved throughout the next year.
"I was able to meet the new Defence Minister and I look forward to facilitating his communication with our Minister of Defence and I really hope that soon President Zelensky will have an introductory call with the New Prime Minister."
Myroshnychenko appreciated the fact that New Zealand is holding elections this year and is dealing with a significant natural disaster but was sure that if the Prime Minister was able to visit Ukraine, Zelensky would be happy to host him.
"For instance, if your Prime Minister comes to a NATO Summit which will be in Vilnius [Lithuania] this July, this could be a good opportunity to swing by."
Listen to the full interview between Ukraine's Ambassador to New Zealand Vasyl Myroshnychenko and Tova above.
You can also download the full interview on the Tova podcast, and listen on the go. Download the rova app on apple or android to listen to this podcast on the go, or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
