‘Ukraine wants peace, not surrender’: Zelenskiy
On Monday, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy of Ukraine delivered a defiant address on the nation's Independence Day, reaffirming Ukraine's commitment to peace while rejecting surrender to Russia at any cost. Accompanied by British Prime Minister Andreas Burnham and European Council President Antonio Costa, Zelenskiy celebrated the resilience of Ukrainians throughout the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Ukraine has consistently sought peace, but Zelenskiy warned that the country is not prepared to simply yield, asserting that Russia would persist in its aggression even if Ukraine agrees to give up more territory in the east. The president wore a traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt and thanked foreign leaders for their continued support during the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's break from the Soviet Union.
British Prime Minister Burnham stated that his attendance at Zelenskiy's speech underscored the importance of supporting Ukraine's defense. The United Kingdom has pledged to provide Ukraine with access to classified technology to begin producing European SCALP long-range cruise missiles, capable of striking deep within Russia. In response, the Kremlin expressed concerns over the consequences this action may have on bilateral relations.
The United States-led peace talks to end the war have faltered, with Ukraine refusing Russian demands to cede more territory. However, Ukrainian forces have managed to halt Russian advances along a 750-mile front line this year. The president highlighted the contributions of Ukraine's defense industry in keeping Russian forces at bay and called for increased production of cruise missiles, particularly during the winter months.
Zelenskiy honored fallen soldiers, presenting state awards to their mothers and family members. He also announced the return of 10 Ukrainian servicemen listed as missing in action, as part of a prisoner exchange with Russia. The Ukrainian leader expressed his hope that allies would provide Ukraine with the necessary resources to end the war.
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