“You wanted our land. You lost your refineries and your fleet.”—Ukraine’s anniversary message to Russia

Ukraine commemorated the 35th anniversary of its independence on August 24, 2026, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a speech detailing the costs of Russia's invasion. Zelenskyy urged Russia to relinquish control over Donbas and deliver stronger weapons to put an end to the conflict. He contrasted Russia's grandiose claims of greatness with the country's current struggles, such as gas shortages, by comparing it to Russian gas stations facing long lines.

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is determined to protect its freedom and will not trade away its defense capabilities, which now include a growing share of missiles and drones. The president also warned Russia that its attempts to exhaust Ukraine are failing, as Ukrainians hold fast to their desire for freedom.