Ukraine marks 35th independence anniversary as allies review security guarantees

Zelenskyy marks 35 years of independence

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the nation on 24 August 2026 in a video recorded in front of Saint Michael's Cathedral in Kyiv. The address marked 35 years since Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union and reached day 1,643 of the full-scale war that began in February 2022. Zelenskyy argued that Russian President Vladimir Putin misjudged Ukraine's population, while suffering heavy losses in oil refineries, naval vessels, and domestic fuel supply. In military assessments, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine now shoots down the vast majority of Russian Shahed drones using domestic systems, but still requires allied support to counter ballistic missiles due to an ongoing shortage of interceptors. He reiterated that Ukraine will not surrender territory to secure an armistice.

Today is Ukraine's Independence Day. The 35th anniversary. A national holiday whose meaning has been deeply changed by the war. One thousand six hundred and forty-three days of full-scale war. Right now, things are truly very, very difficult for all of us, but we are firmly united by a force that is not at all invisible.

Coalition of the Willing reviews security guarantees

Allied leaders held a videoconference of the Coalition of the Willing on Monday to evaluate ongoing military and strategic assistance for Ukraine. Romanian President Nicușor Dan joined the discussions from Bucharest, focusing on the preparation of a formal security guarantee framework. The participants reviewed the rising number of Russian drone incursions near NATO borders, hybrid warfare operations, and measures to protect maritime transit corridors across the Black Sea. Dan condemned recent Russian strikes against Ukrainian civilians as acts of cruelty and irresponsibility, stating that international pressure on Moscow must continue.

Today, marking Ukraine's Independence Day, we had a constructive meeting of the Coalition of the Willing. It was a welcome opportunity to reaffirm our full support for Ukraine and we continued discussions on finalizing a solid framework of security guarantees.

Diplomatic delegations and regional cooperation

European representatives attended in-person ceremonies in Kyiv to mark the anniversary. Romanian First Lady Mirabela Grădinaru represented the presidency following an official invitation from First Lady Olena Zelenska, participating in events alongside Moldovan President Maia Sandu. Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Țoiu issued an official declaration backing Ukraine's path toward European Union membership and post-war reconstruction along their shared border of more than 600 kilometers. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha responded with appreciation for Romanian solidarity, noting that both nations will continue joint efforts to strengthen security across the Black Sea region and NATO's eastern flank.

International statements of solidarity

Foreign heads of state and monarchs released statements affirming support for Kyiv throughout Monday. King Charles III and Queen Camilla issued a joint message from the United Kingdom commending Ukrainian resilience during the conflict. The British monarch stressed the partnership between the two countries and expressed hopes for peace and stability over the coming year.

As we reflect on Ukraine's proud history, its rich culture and indomitable national spirit, we are reminded of the extraordinary strength of character shown by Ukrainians in defending their homeland and preserving the identity and values that define your nation.