Ukraine celebrates its new role on the world stage, 34 years after independence

Ukraine on Sunday celebrated its Independence Day, marking 34 years since the country officially disbanded from the former Soviet Union. The last 3 ½ of those years, however, have been spent trying to maintain its sovereignty following Russia’s invasion in February 2022.

‘Ukraine is not a victim’

During an address to the nation in Kyiv’s Independence Square, Volodymyr Zelenskyy –– a former comedian and actor turned nation’s highest leader –– spoke of the new place Ukraine occupies on a 21st-century world stage. 

“Ukraine is not a victim; it is a fighter. Ukraine does not beg; it offers,” Zelenskyy said. “Alliance and partnership. The best army in Europe. Advanced defense technologies. Experience in resilience. We say: ‘We need the EU (European Union).’ And we do. But the EU needs us just as much. And everyone acknowledges this. And this is how Ukraine is seen – not as a poor relative, but as a strong ally.”

It’s a stark contrast from the role Ukraine has historically played since declaring its independence in December 1991, in the wake of the Soviet Union’s collapse. As Ukraine struggled to establish a stable democracy, the country was rife with corruption and a weak economy that relegated it to the lower echelons of world powers.

Over the past 3 ½ years, however, much of that image has changed. Zelenskyy spoke of future generations who will benefit from the country’s recent sacrifices. 

“We are building a Ukraine strong and powerful enough to live in security and peace. So that here, on this square, on our Independence Square, beneath our flags, on our land, our children and grandchildren will celebrate Independence Day. In peace. In calm. With confidence in the future,” Zelenskyy said. 

Zelenskyy also referenced language that came out of his Oval Office meeting with Trump on Monday, as well as Trump’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska several days before. The Ukrainian president assured his people that “Our future will be decided by us alone. And the world knows it.”

Ukraine “has restored the unity of Europe and the United States and now serves as the foundation of this alliance,” Zelenskyy said. “Ukraine that stands its ground and can defend itself. And that is why Ukraine is heard, Ukraine is taken into account, and Ukraine is listened to. Its place is at the table; it is not told, ‘Wait outside the door.’ It is said, ‘The decision is yours alone.’”

Global leaders mark the occasion

Meanwhile, well-wishes poured in from countries across the globe on Sunday, as Kyiv celebrated its more than three decades of autonomy. U.S. President Donald Trump sent Zelenskyy a letter, congratulating the country and its citizens.

“The people of Ukraine have an unbreakable spirit, and your country’s courage inspires many,” Trump wrote. “As you mark this important day, know the United States respects your fight, honors your sacrifices, and believes in your future as an independent nation.”

In response, Zelenskyy thanked the U.S. for “standing shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine in defending what is most valuable: independence, freedom, and guaranteed peace.”

According to The Associated Press, U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg traveled to Kyiv and attended the day’s events in Independence Square. Zelenskyy took the opportunity to honor Kellogg with the Ukrainian Order of Merit, of the 1st degree. 

Other leaders who sent words of encouragement included Polish President Karol Nawrocki and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. 

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also traveled to Kyiv to mark the occasion and tour some of Ukraine’s weapons production facilities. The trip coincided with an announcement that Canada would be providing $2 billion for Ukrainian defenses, including drones and armored vehicles. 

“Canada and Ukraine are united by the defense of freedom, democracy, and life,” Carney wrote on X.