Zelenskyy Honors Fallen Defenders as Ukraine Marks 35th Independence Day
Kyiv, August 24, 2026: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy paid tribute to the country’s fallen defenders on Monday as Ukraine marked the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its independence, placing remembrance and national unity at the heart of the day’s commemorations.
In a message shared on Independence Day, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine’s independence is sustained by the daily efforts of people who defend the country and those who contribute to its resilience. He also stressed the importance of remembering the sacrifice made by Ukrainians who fought and died for the nation.
The president’s message was accompanied by footage from the Wall of Remembrance in Kyiv, where fallen Ukrainian defenders are commemorated. The memorial, located near St. Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, has become one of the important places in the capital for remembering those who lost their lives defending Ukraine.
Zelenskyy remembers those who gave their lives
Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Ukrainian defenders who continue to serve while remembering those who did not return from the battlefield.
His message focused on the human cost behind Ukraine’s struggle for sovereignty. Rather than treating Independence Day only as a national celebration, the Ukrainian leadership has used the occasion to highlight the sacrifices made by soldiers and civilians during years of conflict.
The president said the memory of fallen defenders should remain an enduring part of Ukraine’s national consciousness.
The remembrance comes as Ukraine continues to face Russia’s ongoing invasion. The war has transformed Independence Day into a particularly significant occasion, with national celebrations taking place alongside ceremonies honoring those killed in the conflict.
Ukraine marks 35 years of independence
August 24 marks Ukraine’s Independence Day. In 1991, Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union, beginning a new chapter in the country’s modern history. The 2026 observance marks the 35th anniversary of the restoration of Ukrainian independence.
For Ukrainians, the anniversary carries a deeper meaning amid the continuing war. The defense of national sovereignty has become a central theme of public commemorations, with political leaders repeatedly linking independence with the country’s ability to determine its own future.
Zelenskyy has used this year’s anniversary to reinforce that message, emphasizing that Ukraine wants peace but will not accept surrender. In his Independence Day address, he rejected territorial concessions demanded by Russia and called for continued international pressure and support for Ukraine.
International leaders gather in Kyiv
The anniversary also brought several international leaders to Kyiv, demonstrating continued diplomatic support for Ukraine.
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham arrived in the Ukrainian capital on Monday for meetings with Zelenskyy and other European leaders. European Council President Antonio Costa and leaders from several European countries also joined discussions in Kyiv.
The gathering comes at a crucial moment for Ukraine, as the war continues and diplomatic efforts to find a lasting settlement remain difficult. Ukraine has continued to seek military and political support from its allies, particularly in areas such as air defense and long-range capabilities.
A day of celebration and remembrance
Independence Day celebrations in Ukraine traditionally include patriotic ceremonies, public gatherings and official events. However, the ongoing war has given the occasion a solemn dimension.
The Wall of Remembrance in Kyiv stands as a visual reminder of that reality. Photographs and names of Ukrainian defenders represent individuals who died during the country’s struggles, making the site an important place for families, officials and citizens to pay their respects.
Zelenskyy’s tribute reflects a broader message being conveyed across Ukraine: national independence is not viewed simply as a historical achievement but as something that Ukrainians continue to defend.
Zelenskyy calls for gratitude to defenders
The Ukrainian president’s message also extended beyond those serving on the battlefield. He recognized the contribution of everyone helping Ukraine remain resilient, including people working to support the country during wartime.
His remarks highlighted the connection between remembrance and responsibility. Honoring those who died, he suggested, also means recognizing the efforts of those who continue to defend Ukraine and support its survival.
As Ukraine marks 35 years of independence, ceremonies such as the tribute at Kyiv’s Wall of Remembrance provide an opportunity to remember the individuals behind the country’s wartime statistics.
For many Ukrainians, the anniversary is therefore both a celebration of statehood and a solemn remembrance of the lives lost in its defense. Zelenskyy’s message placed that sacrifice at the center of Independence Day, reaffirming the Ukrainian government’s position that freedom and sovereignty remain worth defending.
The day’s events in Kyiv also showed that Ukraine’s struggle continues to have an international dimension, with European leaders standing alongside the Ukrainian leadership as the country enters another year of war.
