Ukraine Celebrates Independence Day Amid Ongoing War
KYIV — President Volodymyr Zelensky made a bold declaration on Sunday as Ukraine marked its 34th independence day in the midst of Russia’s continued aggression.
“We need a just peace, a peace where our future will be decided only by us,” Zelensky stated in a national address. “Ukraine has not yet won, but it has certainly not lost.”
The defiant tone from Zelensky came as Moscow accused Kyiv of launching drone strikes on Russian power and energy facilities, resulting in a transformer fire at a nuclear plant in the Kursk region.
Ukraine swiftly dismissed the allegations as mere propaganda, while the U.N.’s nuclear watchdog urged for maximum restraint around atomic facilities.
The day’s celebrations in Kyiv included poignant wreath-laying ceremonies at memorials and the ceremonial raising of the national flag.
Notable figures such as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg stood alongside Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska during the events in the capital.
Carney pledged ongoing Canadian military support, which includes drones, ammunition, and armored vehicles.
Zelensky also confirmed a recent prisoner swap between Ukraine and Russia, resulting in the release of 146 soldiers from each side. Among the released individuals was journalist Dmytro Khilyuk, who had been abducted in 2022.
International solidarity poured in as Britain announced an extension of its Operation Interflex training mission through 2026, with Norway and Germany promising two Patriot air defense systems each.
Ukraine and Sweden agreed to collaborate on joint defense production to bolster Kyiv’s military capabilities.
Even King Charles of the United Kingdom expressed his support for Ukraine, conveying his “greatest and deepest admiration for the unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people” in a message to Zelensky.
Amidst the ongoing conflict, Russia reported capturing two villages in the eastern Donetsk region, underscoring the slow but costly advances being made.
The military actions have cast a shadow over diplomatic efforts, with recent U.S.–Russia talks in Alaska failing to yield any breakthroughs.
Former President Trump, who has been involved in peace negotiations, hinted at potential fresh sanctions or tariffs on Moscow, emphasizing a willingness to walk away from negotiations entirely if necessary. — Agencies
