Zelensky vows to continue fighting as Ukraine marks independence day

Ukraine marked its Independence Day with a powerful speech from President Volodymyr Zelensky, who promised that the country would keep fighting for its freedom. Zelensky said that Ukraine would not stop until it achieved a 'just peace,' where only Ukrainians would decide their future. He made it clear that Ukraine is not just a victim in the war, but a fighter. 'Ukraine has not yet won, but it has certainly not lost,' he said. His speech came after Russia accused Ukraine of attacking a nuclear power plant in the Kursk region, blaming drone strikes for a fire. Ukraine’s Centre for Countering Disinformation said Russia was spreading false information and using propaganda to blame Ukraine for the incident. The fire was quickly put out, and there were no injuries. The United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency said it was aware of the reports but could not confirm them. The agency’s director general reminded everyone that nuclear facilities must be protected at all times during the war.

On Independence Day, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney joined President Zelensky and his wife Olena Zelenska in Kyiv. They laid flowers at a memorial wall to honor those who have died in the conflict. Carney said, 'Canada will always stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine,' and promised to send military aid, including drones, ammunition, and armored vehicles, as part of a large support package. US envoy Keith Kellogg was also present and received an award from Zelensky. Kellogg assured Zelensky, 'We're going to make this work. ' Ukrainian soldiers raised the national flag in Kyiv to begin the celebrations. Zelensky’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, said it was especially important to feel the support of friends like Canada on Independence Day. King Charles sent a letter to Ukraine, expressing his admiration for the Ukrainian people's spirit and wishing for a lasting peace. The UK government announced that British military experts would continue training Ukrainian soldiers until at least 2026. Norway also pledged to send air defense systems to Ukraine, and Sweden agreed to work with Ukraine on joint defense production.

In Kyiv’s Independence Square, people visited a memorial for Ukrainian soldiers who died defending their country. Russia claimed its forces had captured two villages in the Donetsk region, but their advance has been slow and costly. Russian troops now control about 20 percent of Ukraine’s territory. The war began when Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Recently, US President Donald Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss peace. Although both leaders said the talks were successful, Trump has grown frustrated with the lack of progress and is considering more sanctions against Russia. Zelensky continues to call for an unconditional ceasefire, but Russia says it is not ready for a summit. The war goes on, but Ukraine remains determined to fight for its independence and future.