European Leaders, NATO, and EU Reaffirm Commitment to Ukraine's Sovereignty, Independence, and Territorial Integrity
European leaders, NATO, and the EU have congratulated Ukraine on its 33rd Independence Day.
President of Finland Alexander Stubb released a congratulatory video on the social media platform X, captioning it, "Happy Independence Day, Ukraine. Glory to Ukraine." "We in Finland know what it means to fight for our independence. You did it from 1939 to 1944. You are fighting for your independence, you are fighting for your rightful place in the West. I wish you, Ukraine, the best Independence Day. Glory to Ukraine," said Stubb.
Secretary General of the Council of Europe Marija Pejčinović Burić wrote on her X page that on Independence Day, she once again reaffirms the Council of Europe's unwavering commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. "Today, we pay tribute to the courage and determination of Ukrainians from all walks of life and look forward to better, more peaceful times for their country. Despite the hardships, pain, and losses caused by the terrible aggressive war by the Russian Federation, the Council of Europe and Ukraine continue to work together for the free, democratic, and European future that the Ukrainian people have the right to," she wrote.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen emphasised on X that Europe will always stand with Ukraine because "Ukraine is Europe." "Your freedom is our freedom. Your security is our security. We have been with you since day one. And we will continue to do so for as long as it takes. I wish our friends a proud Independence Day. Glory to Ukraine," her congratulatory message read.
President of the European Council Charles Michel, in his congratulatory message on X, wrote that Ukrainians remind us that freedom is something to fight for. "Dear Ukrainians, your courage is an example for us, and your sacrifice is worthy of respect. We will stand by your side until you win. And the day is approaching when we will welcome you into the EU. Where you belong. Glory to Ukraine!" Michel wrote.
EU High Representative Josep Borrell reminded that for 2.5 years, Ukraine has bravely defended its freedom and independence against Russian aggression. "On this Independence Day, I reaffirm our commitment to supporting Ukraine in its existential struggle, which is also vital for the EU. Ukraine will prevail. Glory to Ukraine!" Borrell wrote.
US President Joe Biden congratulated Ukraine twice. On the eve of the holiday, on August 23, the White House press office released a congratulatory message in which Biden said that during a conversation with President Zelenskyy, he expressed America's "unwavering support" for the Ukrainian people. "As the people of Ukraine celebrate their Independence Day, let it be clear: when Russia's senseless war began, Ukraine was a free country. Today it is still a free country. And the war will end with Ukraine remaining a free, sovereign, and independent state," he said. Today, on August 24, Biden wrote on Instagram that despite the "senseless war" started by Russia, Ukraine remains a "free nation." "And the war will end with Ukraine remaining a free, sovereign, and independent country," the American president added.
US Vice President and presidential candidate Kamala Harris stated that on Ukraine's Independence Day, she joins in honouring the shared values that the Ukrainian people bravely defend every day: independence, sovereignty, and freedom. "We will continue to stand with Ukraine in its fight for freedom against Russian aggression," she emphasised.
President of Moldova Maia Sandu addressed Ukrainians and President Zelenskyy on X, stating that on this important day, the people of Moldova stand with Ukraine. "And as you fight for your independence, remember: your spirit is free and strong. On Ukraine's Independence Day, we celebrate the courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people. Your fight for freedom is a beacon of hope for all who value democracy. Moldova stands with you, today and always," Sandu's message read.
Prime Minister of Moldova Dorin Recean, on the occasion of Ukraine's Independence Day, assured that his country supports Ukraine for the sake of a peaceful future. "On Ukraine's Independence Day, we celebrate the unity and strength of the Ukrainian people, who choose courage as a way of life: whether fighting for freedom, providing assistance, or protecting children from bombings. Moldova stands with Ukraine for a peaceful future," Recean wrote on X, ending his post with the slogan "Glory to Ukraine!".
Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson congratulated the Ukrainian people on Independence Day, noting that these are "dark times for Ukraine and Europe." "But just as Ukraine broke free from Soviet shackles in 1991, so too will Ukraine break free from Russian shackles today. You can be sure that Swedish support will only grow stronger."
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo also congratulated Ukrainians on Ukraine's Independence Day, according to a message from the Belgian Embassy. "Today is an important day. We celebrate the independence and sovereignty of Ukraine. We are impressed by how the Ukrainian people are defending themselves against Russian oppression and tyranny. You inspire all freedom-loving people around the world. Glory to Ukraine!" De Croo said.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Congratulates Ukrainians on 33rd Independence Anniversary, Reports The Independent. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has congratulated Ukrainians on the 33rd anniversary of their Independence, according to The Independent. "My message to all Ukrainians, whether on the frontline or here in your second home in the UK, is absolutely clear: we stand with you—today and always. This is what I told President Zelenskyy when he sat at the Cabinet table, where, on behalf of the British people, I emphasised that it’s not just the British government that stands with Ukraine—it’s all of us. We will stand with you for as long as it takes. Glory to Ukraine!" Starmer declared.
The UK Ministry of Defence also extended its congratulations to Ukraine on Independence Day. The department stated that the 33rd anniversary "provides an opportunity for people across Britain and around the world to honour the strength, resilience, and identity of the Ukrainian people." The Ministry encouraged people to share videos on social media, clapping, playing music, singing, or ringing bells, using the hashtag #MakeNoiseForUkraine on Saturday.
Defence Secretary John Healey also added his separate congratulations: "On Independence Day, we salute the fearless resolve of the Ukrainian people. They are fighting for freedoms we should never take for granted. Ukraine has no stronger friend than the UK, and we will stand with them for as long as it takes. Britain is united for Ukraine."
Presidents of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia Congratulate Ukraine on Independence Anniversary.
Estonian President Alar Karis extended his "warmest wishes" to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and congratulated Ukraine on its Independence Day. "Ukraine has shown immense courage in fighting against evil. The civilised world stands with Ukraine—on the right side. We have no doubt that Ukraine will force the aggressor into peace. Ukraine, we are with you. Glory to Ukraine!" his message read.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs wrote: "Sincere congratulations to President Zelenskyy and all Ukrainians on Independence Day! Latvia has supported and will continue to support Ukraine in its fight for freedom and against Russian aggression." He added a few words in Ukrainian: "Heartfelt congratulations to Ukraine on Independence Day!"
Lithuanian leader Gitanas Nausėda also extended his congratulations to Ukrainians on Independence Day: "Happy Independence Day, dear friend Zelenskyy and the brave people of Ukraine! In Lithuania, we have no doubt that Ukraine will prevail, become a member of the EU and NATO, grow stronger, and prosper. Lithuania will continue to be your staunchest supporter. You can always count on us!"
The Lithuanian Ministry of Defence echoed these sentiments, writing: "Today, we congratulate our brothers and sisters in Ukraine on Independence Day. We will never stop believing in and supporting the freedom and bright future of this nation. Ukraine's struggle is our struggle."