Ukraine on High Alert During Special Holiday
(DailyVantage.com) – Wednesday, August 24, marked six months since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began. It’s also the 31st anniversary of the former Soviet bloc nation’s independence from the former union. Yet, there were no mass celebrations — not with the general populace on high alert in the face of continued Kremlin-based threats.
Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine rose out of the ashes, declaring its independence on August 24, 1991. Its first president, Leonid Kravchuk, took office on December 5 of the same year. Five years later, the nation’s officials adopted its first constitution, which remains the country’s fundamental law today.
🇺🇦 Today, Ukraine is marking its most special Independence Day.
Six months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion, Ukraine is still a free, independent country. A country that is suffering – but still standing strong. https://t.co/vy6jmNzqxo
— The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) August 24, 2022
Still, things haven’t been smooth sailing. After he rose to power, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that Ukraine was always a part of Russia. He moved to annex Crimea in 2014 and continues his aggressions to bring the country back under his rule.
While Independence Day remained relatively subdued, with mandated curfews and mass events canceled, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed his nation. He said the day Russia invaded, Ukraine was “reborn,” and “victory” rather than peace is now the goal.
President Joe Biden also recognized the country’s independence and pledged to continue supporting its efforts.
Today, I congratulate the people of Ukraine on their Independence Day.
The Ukrainian people have inspired the world with their courage and dedication to freedom. We are committed to continuing to support them as they defend their sovereignty and their democracy.
— President Biden (@POTUS) August 24, 2022
In addition to Biden’s remarks, Prime Minister Boris Johnson visited Zelenskyy in the nation’s capital city of Kyiv. The British Defence Ministry also honored Ukraine’s holiday and said it remains committed to the country’s freedom as well.
"With its sovereign freedom, Ukraine chose its own path."
Defence Secretary @BWallaceMP has paid tribute to the people of Ukraine on Ukrainian Independence Day. 🇺🇦🇬🇧
#StandWithUkraine #StandForFreedom pic.twitter.com/7diQqypeKo— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) August 24, 2022
While Ukraine may still be amid an unwanted war, it’s standing tall and honoring its history and future — even if the nation is doing so quietly.
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