"No Humiliating Compromise"
Canada Pledges Military and Financial Support
Pope, Trump, and Xi Jinping Send Congratulatory Messages
On the 34th anniversary of Ukraine's independence, marked amid Russia's ongoing invasion, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine declared on August 24 (local time), "The future of Ukraine will be determined by us," firmly rejecting any humiliating compromise with Russia.
He emphasized the need for a "just peace," reaffirming Ukraine's commitment to sovereignty and independence.
President Zelensky stated, "Ukraine has not yet achieved a complete victory, but it has certainly not been defeated. Ukraine has preserved its independence," adding, "Ukraine is not a victim, but a fighter."
He further asserted, "Ukraine will achieve reliable and sustainable peace by securing such strong security guarantees that no one will dare to invade us in the future. A strong Ukraine, an equal Ukraine, a European Ukraine, an independent Ukraine. These are the goals we must pass on to our descendants."
Countries around the world also expressed their support and solidarity on Ukraine's Independence Day. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who visited Kyiv, announced that half of the 2 billion Canadian dollars (about 2 trillion won) in aid promised in June would be allocated to providing drones, armored vehicles, and ammunition. He also stated that Canada would become the first non-European country to participate in NATO's "Ukraine Priority Urgent Requirements List (PURL)" program. PURL is a procurement system in which NATO member states purchase U.S.-made weapons to supply to Ukraine.
From the United States, President Donald Trump's envoy, Keith Kellogg, attended the ceremony and received a medal of merit from President Zelensky. He also met with Ukrainian Prime Minister Yuliya Svyrydenko to discuss the U.S.-Ukraine mineral agreement and security guarantees.
Swedish Defense Minister Paul Jonson agreed to joint production of military equipment, while Norway announced it would invest 7 billion kroner (about 960 billion won) in cooperation with Germany to support the Patriot air defense system.
President Zelensky revealed congratulatory messages sent by world leaders, including Pope Leo XIV, King Charles III of the United Kingdom, and President Trump. The Pope said, "I pray for the people of Ukraine," appealing for peace through dialogue instead of weapons. President Trump stated, "The courage of Ukraine inspires the world," expressing his support for ending the war through negotiations. Chinese President Xi Jinping also sent a congratulatory message, emphasizing the traditional friendly relations and long-term cooperation between the two countries, while avoiding mention of the war.
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