President Zelenskyy’s address on Ukrainian Statehood Day

“I thank you. Millions of Ukrainians. Millions of characters, who together form our state. Our nation, our history, and our path from the Baptism of Rus–Ukraine to this very day,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an address on the occasion of the Day of Ukrainian Statehood on July 15.

Dear Ukrainians!

On July 15, we mark an important day. The Day of our Statehood.

The Day of the Baptism of Kyivan Rus–Ukraine. This day is about connection. About every stage of our statehood and about the bond that unites dozens of generations: those who lived in this land a thousand years ago and those who live here today.

A bridge through time, standing on three unshakable pillars: Ukrainians were here, Ukrainians are here, Ukrainians will be here.

And on this land, life always triumphs. Values and our character prevail – the best in our people, who, despite war, tears, and pain, have preserved their humanity, and who protect one another, which means they protect their state.

And this is proven by thousands of our fates, thousands of our stories of what we have lived through, of what each heart carries, whoever you are: a warrior, a teacher, a musician, a drone engineer, or the President.

These are stories of our days, nights, and mornings. Of the night on the contact line, described by a serviceman: “They’re pressing. Swarming from all directions. We’re holding. And you – hold on too. We are reading the news about the shelling of peaceful cities. What can I say… This is a war that affects every one of us. And may God grant peace to us all.”

Full text of the address: Office of the President of Ukraine