UWC Statement on the 27th Anniversary of the Independence of Ukraine

As Ukrainians worldwide unite in spirit on 24 August to commemorate the 27th anniversary of the re‑establishment of the Ukrainian state, we celebrate achievements while reflecting on the challenges facing the Ukrainian people on the road to full integration into the Euro-Atlantic community.

24 August 1991 marked the beginning of the consolidation of the independence of Ukraine and its development into a democratic, economically viable and prosperous state that would always secure the right of future generations of Ukrainians to live freely on their own land and be a strong member of the international community upholding the values of all independent states.

In 2018, Ukrainians can continue to take pride in their accomplishments, primarily the national reform agenda which is moving the country forward domestically while building strong international relations.

The challenges are great. The hybrid aggression of the Russian Federation continues to take the lives of innocent Ukrainians and 4.4 million residents of the Donbas have been directly affected by a humanitarian crisis of proportions unseen since the end of World War II. However, the determination, resoluteness and courage of the Ukrainian people in the face of relentless aggression from the neighboring Russian Federation has brought the world to Ukraine’s side with respect for Ukraine’s demonstrative defence of not only its own territorial integrity, but peace and stability in the world.

On this Independence Day we join in prayer to honor all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Ukraine’s independence, and keep in our thoughts the defenders who continue to stand on the front lines to protect Ukraine’s borders.

May the Ukrainian flag wave freely in every corner of the world symbolizing the unity in purpose with which the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine will be irrevocably entrenched.

On the occasion of the 27th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence, the Ukrainian World Congress and its member organizations extend greetings to the Hierarchs and Clergy of Ukrainian Churches, President of Ukraine, Prime Minister of Ukraine, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, all the brave men and women fighting for Ukraine’s independence, and Ukrainians worldwide.

“The Ukrainian World Congress and the 20-million strong Ukrainian diaspora stand firmly with the people of Ukraine on this greatest national holiday, the proclamation of the reinstatement of the independent Ukrainian state, and reaffirm our commitment to help ensure that the territorial integrity of Ukraine is fully restored,” stated UWC President Eugene Czolij.