Ukraine marks Independence Day as UK vows support despite Russia's threats

On Ukraine's 35th Independence Day, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy defiantly vowed the nation would not surrender to Russian aggression despite escalating threats. Foreign leaders, including British Prime Minister Andy Burnham, attended the ceremony and pledged continued support. Zelenskyy, wearing traditional Ukrainian clothing, praised the resilience of Ukrainians and called for allies to provide missile interceptors to counter Russian aggression.

Burnham, who made Kyiv his first foreign visit, vowed to aid Ukraine's defense despite Russia's threats. The British government announced providing Ukraine with classified technology to produce European SCALP long-range cruise missiles. However, Russia warned this move would "add fuel to the fire" of their deteriorating relations.

The Ukrainian president urged allies to support Ukraine in every way possible to end the war, acknowledging the country's $27 billion defense funding gap and fears of Russian mobilizing additional troops in September. Ukraine continues to face a 1,200-kilometer front line, with overall Russian advances halted this year, while Russian forces have targeted cities far from the front line using drones.

Zelenskyy presented state awards to fallen soldiers and announced the return of 10 missing servicemen in a prisoner exchange with Russia.