Celebrations Held in Kyiv with International Dignitaries
Kyiv. Ukraine commemorated its Independence Day on August 24th in an atmosphere marked by war against Russia and international diplomatic negotiations seeking a peace agreement.
President Zelenskyy’s Speech Highlights Long-term Security and International Support
At Sofia Square in Kyiv, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy led a ceremony attended by foreign dignitaries, including U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
“Together, Ukrainians and our partners strive to push Russia towards peace,” Zelenskyy declared, emphasizing that the conflict’s end must ensure Ukraine’s long-term security. “We all work to make the war’s end mean secure peace, so neither war nor the threat of war bequeaths itself to our children,” he added to the audience.
Three and a Half Years Since Russia’s Large-Scale Invasion
The commemoration comes three and a half years after Russia’s large-scale invasion, amidst pressures from Washington for Zelenskyy to accept concessions while former U.S. President Donald Trump advocates for a potential deal with Moscow.
Zelenskyy acknowledged the high human cost of the conflict and affirmed that his people will continue defending their land. He also highlighted Ukraine’s collaboration with European allies in designing post-war security frameworks, proposals that have garnered Trump’s support.
Symbolic Significance of Independence Day
The day marked 34 years since Ukraine’s restoration of independence in 1991, emphasizing resilience, unity in diversity, and the daily defense of freedom as core national values.
From Mexico, the Ukrainian Embassy stressed that “Ukrainians demonstrate their independence every day, not just on Independence Day.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of Ukraine’s Independence Day? It commemorates the restoration of Ukraine’s independence in 1991, emphasizing resilience, unity, and the daily defense of freedom.
- Who attended the Independence Day ceremony in Kyiv? Foreign dignitaries, including U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, attended the ceremony led by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
- What did President Zelenskyy emphasize in his speech? He stressed the importance of long-term security for Ukraine and international support in ending the conflict, ensuring a secure peace for future generations.
- What challenges does Ukraine face amidst its Independence Day celebrations? The country continues to grapple with Russia’s large-scale invasion, diplomatic tensions, and pressures to accept concessions while working with allies on post-war security frameworks.
