As Russia’s brutal assault on its neighbor stretches to its 100th day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy pledged to continue defending his country.

“The president is here. Our team is much bigger. The armed forces of Ukraine are here. And most importantly: our people, the people of our country are here. We have been defending Ukraine for 100 days now. Victory will be ours. Glory to Ukraine!”

A war that Western countries believe Russia planned to win within hours has ground on for more than three months, with Moscow having been driven back from the capital but launching a huge new assault in the east, Reuters reported. 

Ukrainian forces on Friday still held part of the eastern industrial city of Sievierodonetsk, as Russia poured its forces into the battle, aiming to capture the city and control the Luhansk region.  

Members of Ukraine’s foreign legion – volunteer fighters from around the world – arrived in the city on Thursday, and prepared to fight, Reuters reported. 

22-year old Zurab said it is a war for Georgians as well. 

“We’re going to push the Russians back. It will take a day, a month, or a year, it does not fucking matter. We are on the right side of history. So we’re going to make sure all of us, we’re gonna get back home with our families. And we’re gonna make sure the occupiers won’t do the same.”

Nearby Lysychansk is one of the remaining areas in Luhansk region still controlled by Ukraine’s forces.

Civilians there say they struggle to live without electricity and running water, as Russia tightens its grip on the area. 

But for some, the loss of internet and cell phone networks connecting them with family is the hardest part.

“Our grandchildren left. How they are, how they are doing? We have no connection…“ 

The massive Russian assault in the east in recent weeks has been one of the deadliest phases of the invasion. 

But on Friday, Kyiv residents viewing a display of captured Russian weapons in the city center remained hopeful for victory. 

“We are very strong, stronger than we thought. […] We will certainly win. I am 100 percent sure.”