Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addressed the nation on the 34th Independence Day, speaking from Kyiv’s Maidan. In his speech, he stressed that independence is not a parade but a daily struggle — on the front lines, in hospitals, in shelters, and in factories.
Zelenskiy underlined that Ukraine has withstood the war with Russia and proved to the world: “We are not a victim, we are a fighter. Ukraine does not beg — it offers partnership and the strongest army in Europe.”
He stated that the country’s future will be decided by Ukrainians themselves: “We need the European Union, but it needs us no less.” Zelenskiy added that Ukraine will no longer be a “poor relative” but an equal partner — one that is heard and respected.
The president paid tribute to the victims of the war and thanked everyone who holds the country together — from soldiers and volunteers to teachers and doctors. “Ukraine does not wait for gestures of goodwill; it has its own will,” he said, stressing that a just peace will be achieved and that security guarantees will make the country unreachable for future aggressions.
“We are building a nation where our children and grandchildren will celebrate Independence Day in peace and with confidence in the future,” Zelenskiy concluded.