The piece reflects on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion approaches. The author, who identifies as Russian but has lived in Canada, emphasizes the need for support for Ukraine, arguing that the invasion represents a criminal act rather than a complex geopolitical situation. They suggest that while the Russian government has made serious missteps over the decades, these do not justify the aggressive actions seen in 2022. The author believes that Ukraine has made significant strides in governance and military reform, while Russia has regressed under increasing repression. The author outlines two main justifications often cited for Russia's invasion: the need for security from NATO and claims of protecting Russian-speaking populations in Ukraine. They challenge these narratives by highlighting historical context, noting that fears of NATO expansion stem from Russia's own aggressive past in regions like Chechnya and Georgia. The piece also critiques the legitimacy of public support for the annexation of Crimea, pointing out that independent polling is questionable under the threat of violence and that many voices, particularly Crimean Tatars, were excluded from this narrative. In discussing the war's conduct, the author contrasts the actions of Ukrainian forces with those of the Russian military, citing specific incidents like the attack on a theater in Mariupol as examples of Russia's disregard for civilian life. They argue that the Ukrainian military focuses on military targets and does not use chemical weapons, underscoring a moral distinction between the two sides. The author concludes that recognizing and naming the evil of the invasion is essential for fostering a world where such actions are not tolerated.