President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a nationwide address, saying Ukraine has entered one of the most difficult periods in its modern history and now stands before a stark choice — between dignity and freedom, or the risk of losing a key partner.
He said that the current pressure on Ukraine is unprecedented and that Kyiv is expected to respond to a proposed 28-point plan. Zelensky emphasized that he had already given his answer on May 20, 2019, when he took the presidential oath to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and independence. “This is a pledge, and I will never betray it,” he said.
Zelensky stressed that Ukraine will not make loud public statements and will continue calm, constructive work with the United States and all partners. Kyiv will present its arguments, propose alternatives, and avoid giving Russia any chance to claim that Ukraine doesn’t want peace or is sabotaging diplomacy.
The president said the government will work nonstop — today, tomorrow, and for as long as needed. His main objective is to ensure that at least two principles are not removed from any plan: the dignity and freedom of Ukrainians. Everything else — sovereignty, independence, land, people and the nation’s future — is based on these values.
He stressed that any peace must not result in “the end of Ukraine, the end of Europe, or the end of global stability.” Zelensky said he had spoken with European leaders who clearly understand that Ukraine is the shield protecting the EU from Putin’s ambitions. “Europe was with us. And we believe Europe will remain with us,” he said.
Zelensky reminded Ukrainians of the first day of the full-scale invasion, when people chose not to flee but to stand and fight. That unity, he said, is what scares Russia most. He urged immediate consolidation inside the country — of citizens, politicians, parliament, and government. “Stop the infighting. Stop the political games. The state must work,” he said.
He recalled that on the first day of the war, envoys brought him ultimatums and plans demanding Ukraine’s capitulation. “I did not betray Ukraine then,” Zelensky said, adding that he felt the support of every soldier, volunteer, medic, diplomat, journalist and citizen. “We will not betray Ukraine now.”
The president warned that the coming week will be extremely difficult and filled with political and informational pressure designed to weaken and divide Ukrainian society. “We are strong, but even the strongest metal can break. Do not forget this,” he said.
He concluded with a call for unity and confidence in Ukraine’s future:
“For our dignity. For our freedom. And I know I am not alone. With me are our people, our society, our warriors, our partners, our allies — all our people. Dignified. Free. United.
Happy Day of Dignity and Freedom. Glory to Ukraine!”