Ukraine Reaffirms Determination and Sovereignty in Historic Speech for 35 Years of Independence

Ukraine Reaffirms Determination and Sovereignty in Historic Speech for 35 Years of Independence

Marking 35 years of the restoration of its independence and 1,643 days of resistance against large-scale aggression, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a hard-hitting address to the nation. In his message, the head of state highlighted the unwavering resilience of the Ukrainian people, rejected external pressures for territorial surrender, and called for a more active stance from the international community.

1. The Human Factor and Collective Resilience

Zelensky emphasized that the Kremlin's primary miscalculation was disregarding the strength of Ukrainian society. “In all his plans for Ukraine, Putin got the most important thing wrong. The enemy calculated our resources, stockpiles, and equipment, but failed to account for the key piece: the people — the greatest achievement of Ukraine's independence. The people who make up our state, who take responsibility, who do not want Russia here, and who fight tooth and nail for peace and independence”, the president declared.

2. Rejection of Concessions and External Pressures

The leader was categorical in dismissing any alternative that implies capitulation or unilateral territorial concessions under false premises of swift agreements. “We will not allow them to take the initiative or fool Europe and the entire world into believing that we must simply give up Donbas and everything will end quickly. We have no illusions. We have no faith in them. We will not spare the Kremlin half a million soldiers. We must stay united and finish the job”, he pointed out.

3. Defense Industry and Technological Response

Addressing the country's deterrence capabilities, Zelensky highlighted the advancement of the national military-industrial complex and the strategic use of long-range technologies. In the face of persistent attacks against urban centers and infrastructure, the president reinforced that the country responds in kind so that aggression faces real costs beyond its borders, turning survival on the battlefield into a solid foundation for future security.

4. Global Appeals and Demands

Concluding his message with a strategic call to international partners, Zelensky directed direct messages to major powers:

 

United States: Appealed for Washington to overcome internal barriers and provide the necessary support to accelerate the end of the conflict and compel Moscow to negotiate.

Europe: Exhorted European allies to remain united, ambitious, and courageous in defending continental values.

 

China: Demanded that Beijing assume its responsibility as a major civilizational power, avoiding omission in the face of nuclear threats from global dictators.

The ceremonies were attended by international leaders and strategic partners in Kyiv, reinforcing the collective commitment to a just, lasting peace based on international law.