Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave a strong speech on Independence Day, saying Ukraine will keep fighting for freedom until peace is reached. He said Ukraine wants a fair peace where its future is decided only by Ukrainians. “Ukraine has not yet won, but it has not lost,” he added.
His words came after Russia claimed Ukraine attacked energy facilities in the Kursk region, causing a fire at a nuclear power plant. Ukraine denied this, saying Russia was spreading propaganda. The fire damaged a transformer but was quickly put out, and radiation levels stayed normal. The UN nuclear agency (IAEA) said all nuclear sites must always be protected.
On the same day, Ukraine and Russia exchanged 146 prisoners each. Among those returning to Ukraine were soldiers, border guards, civilians, and journalist Dmytro Khilyuk, who was kidnapped in 2022.
Independence Day was celebrated in Kyiv with foreign leaders attending. Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney stood with Zelensky, promising more weapons and support worth $2bn Canadian dollars. US envoy Keith Kellogg also joined, and Zelensky shared a letter from Donald Trump congratulating Ukraine. King Charles of the UK sent his warm wishes, praising Ukrainians’ “unbreakable spirit.”
The UK said it will keep training Ukrainian soldiers until at least 2026. Norway announced nearly $700m in air defence systems, while Sweden agreed with Ukraine on joint defence production.
Meanwhile, Russia claimed it captured two villages in eastern Ukraine. Russian forces currently control about 20% of Ukraine after launching a full invasion in February 2022.
Earlier this month, Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska to push peace talks. But Trump later showed frustration, warning he may impose tougher sanctions or tariffs on Russia if progress is not made. Zelensky has called for an immediate ceasefire but accused Russia of blocking peace meetings. Russia said it is ready for talks only when an agenda is agreed.
Despite the war, Zelensky said Ukraine remains strong and inspired by international support, hoping for a just and lasting peace.
-Peace News Desk