On its second Independence Day since Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukraine stands firm, vowing to persevere in expelling Kremlin’s forces. As the nation commemorates amidst the war’s 18-month milestone, a somber undertone colors the celebrations.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took to social media, stating, “We remember everyone who gave their lives for freedom and independence, for the free future of Ukraine.” He reaffirmed that an independent Ukraine remains their pursuit.
In the Kharkiv region, families visited a cemetery housing fallen Ukrainian soldiers. Kateryna Krotchenko, mother of Serhii Krotchenko, cleaned her son’s grave, remembering him as an ordinary boy with dreams. His voluntary enlistment to defend their land was met with acceptance, but the harsh reality of war was unexpected.
European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell acknowledged Ukraine’s fight for the values of sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. This struggle has garnered foreign support, particularly from NATO allies who equipped Kyiv with advanced weaponry, enabling a determined counteroffensive.
Ukraine’s defense ministry expressed gratitude through witty social media videos for their allies’ support. The United States was serenaded with Frank Sinatra’s “Our Love is Here to Stay,” cheekily acknowledging the provision of F-16s. Britain’s punk classic “London Calling” thanked the UK, Canada received appreciation for various provisions, and France was sent affection to the tune of Serge Gainsbourg’s “Je t’aime … moi non plus.”
Amidst this appreciation, the day unfolded amidst ongoing conflict. Ukrainian intelligence units, accompanied by the navy, targeted Russian military assets in Crimea. In the southern Kherson region, a Russian strike left a 7-year-old girl severely injured, underscoring the ongoing struggles in the face of adversity.