UK Supports Ukraine as Independence Day Observed

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On Ukraine’s Independence Day, Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelensky, highlighted the importance of international support. Writing on Telegram early Sunday, Yermak said, “On this special day – Ukraine’s Independence Day – it is especially important for us to feel the support of our friends. And Canada has always stood by us.”

President Zelensky also shared a letter from King Charles, expressing his “warmest and most sincere wishes” to the people of Ukraine. The King praised the “unbreakable spirit of the Ukrainian people” and expressed hope that the UK and Ukraine could “work closely together to achieve a just and lasting peace.” Zelensky described the message as a source of inspiration during the ongoing conflict.

In recognition of the anniversary, Ukrainian flags were raised above Downing Street. The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed that British military experts will continue training Ukrainian soldiers under Operation Interflex, the codename for the UK Armed Forces’ programme for Ukrainian recruits, at least until the end of 2026.

Norway has pledged around 7 billion kroner (£514 million; $693 million) in air defence systems to Ukraine. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said the contribution, alongside German support, would provide powerful air defence capabilities, including missiles and radar systems.

Meanwhile, Ukraine and Sweden have agreed to joint defence production. Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson stated that the collaboration will “boost Swedish rearmament and meet the needs of Ukraine’s armed forces.” Jonson added that Ukraine would share technology with Swedish factories, and defence equipment co-produced in Sweden will be exported back to Ukraine.

In Kyiv, Independence Square features a makeshift memorial to fallen Ukrainian defenders, with flowers and flags from multiple countries, including France, commemorating those lost in the conflict.

On the frontlines, Russia reported seizing two villages in Ukraine’s Donetsk region on Saturday. Russian forces have advanced slowly in eastern Ukraine, controlling roughly 20% of the country’s territory. Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Diplomatic efforts have continued this month, with US President Donald Trump meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on 15 August. Although both leaders described the talks as successful, Trump later expressed frustration over the lack of a peace deal and indicated that the United States may impose further economic sanctions on Russia.

The conflict remains ongoing, with international partners like the UK, Norway, and Sweden providing both political and material support to Ukraine while diplomatic discussions continue.