Ukraine celebrated its 35th Independence Day under the shadow of ongoing Russian attacks. A regional security expert believes Russian President Vladimir Putin feels “panicked” as Ukrainian forces gain ground deeper inside Russia.
This anniversary commemorates Ukraine’s declaration of independence from the Soviet Union on August 24, 1991. It arrives amid increased Russian strikes on civilian areas and a warning from Ukraine’s Security Service about potential terrorist attacks.
Several European leaders, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, gathered in Kyiv to show support as the conflict continues. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine seeks peace but remains unwilling to concede to Moscow’s demands.
Recently, a Russian drone attack on a crowded shopping center in Kryvyi Rih, Zelenskyy’s hometown, resulted in the deaths of at least 16 people and injured 130. Moscow’s airstrikes emphasize non-military targets, aiming to weaken Ukrainian resolve.
The war with Russia has seen significant advances for Ukraine this year.
Ukraine targets Russian economic structures to disrupt Moscow’s logistics, including facilities owned by online retailers Wildberries and Ozon. Former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Carrie Filipetti noted significant Ukrainian advances in Russian territory, deeper than ever before, which has resulted in heightened hostility from Russia.
Filipetti explains that Putin’s actions, such as targeting a shopping mall, aim to demoralize Ukrainians rather than defeat them militarily. The intensified Russian attacks coincide with the Independence Day celebrations, raising security concerns.
European leaders, including the heads of state from Finland, Lithuania, Norway, Denmark, Estonia, and Latvia, demonstrated continued international support for Ukraine.
Filipetti stressed the importance of international support during these times, highlighting that large public gatherings can increase security risks. Ukrainian authorities urged citizens to monitor transit and avoid sharing media that might reveal military positions.
The celebration followed a volatile exchange of drone and missile attacks, with both sides suffering losses. Filipetti emphasized Russia’s diminishing territorial advances and increased reliance on foreign fighters.
Filipetti stated that Ukraine’s resilience shows a clear deterrent against Russian aggression. She noted that this resolve sends a strong message to other adversaries of the United States, like China, about the consequences of unilateral invasions.
Emma Bussey of Fox News Digital reported on this, with previous work at The Telegraph across various news desks.