Zelensky: There Is No Doubt – Ukraine Will Always Be Independent

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky unequivocally affirmed on Monday, August 24th, that Ukraine’s independence would remain an unshakable reality. This proclamation came as Ukraine marked the 35th anniversary of its declaration of independence, which took place in 1991 following the failed Soviet coup, or the "August Coup." During this brief power grab, Communist Party officials had President Mikhail Gorbachev under house arrest.

Zelensky's statement emphasized the unwavering resolve of Ukrainians, stating, "There is no doubt about it," and reinforcing that the nation would not be subservient to any belief or dream it did not hold dear. He rejected the notion that sovereignty could be negotiated between larger powers, asserting that Ukrainians would not be "a bargaining chip in disputes between capitals."

In a separate telegram, Zelensky honored those who had sustained Ukraine's existence throughout the war, awarding state medals to soldiers, civilians posthumously, and military units. Among the posthumously recognized were Junior Lieutenant Nazariy Hryntsevych, head of the search organization "Platsdarm" Oleksii Yukov, and schoolboy Stepan Chubenko.

Notable Ukrainians were also acknowledged for their contributions, including sport shooting champion Olena Kostevych, rehabilitation center director Olha Rudnieva, Bishop Vitali Kryvytski, and artist Anatoliy Kryvolap and singer Zlata Ohnevich. Zelensky expressed gratitude to all individuals who contribute to Ukraine's independence, stating, "Thank you for being part of Ukraine, and for our state being able to be proud of you."

Coinciding with the anniversary, ten Ukrainian servicemen listed as missing in action returned home via Belarus, and UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham arrived in Kyiv for his first official visit to Ukraine during the celebrations. Additionally, the UK government agreed to permit defense firm MBDA to declassify information on components used in British cruise missiles, following its 2023 delivery of long-range weapons to Ukraine.