Today, on the 32nd anniversary of Ukraine’s independence, each of us is filled with special pride, courage and strength, despite the pain of war that has been in the hearts of Ukrainians for so long.

Today, at ground zero, our future is being decided: whether the blue and yellow flag will fly in every corner of Ukraine, whether our children and future generations will live under a free sky.

But neither missiles nor bullets, nor the enemy’s cunning and lies will destroy our independence. They will not take away our freedom. Because freedom is, above all, a state of mind.

The Ukrainian spirit has been tempered by the most severe trials: enslavement, blood, and hunger. For centuries, our ancestors have been fighting for the right to exist and for Ukraine’s freedom. And now in the 21st century, our warriors of light continue this struggle.

We bow to each and every Ukrainian soldier who has the courage to carry this indomitable spirit of the entire family and with it, centimeter by centimeter, to reclaim our land – all 603,628 km2.

We sincerely congratulate all Ukrainians on this great holiday. Let us remember: as long as we are free from within, and as long as we are united in this freedom, no one will ever take away our Ukraine’s independence!