From Washington to Ottawa, partners paired anniversary greetings with fresh promises of solidarity, while one message linked Ukraine’s freedom directly to Europe’s own.

On August 24, Ukraine marks the 35th anniversary of its declaration of independence. Ukrainian people received congratulations from world leaders and international partners, including representatives of the United States, the European Union, Israel, Finland, and Australia.

Support for Sovereignty and a Just Peace

In a message from the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the strong cooperation between Washington and Kyiv. He also reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and to working toward a negotiated end to the Russian-Ukrainian war.

Today, 35 years after Ukraine declared its independence from the Soviet Union on August 24, 1991, the United States once again reaffirms the strong partnership between our two countries. The United States is committed to Ukraine’s sovereignty and continues to work to support a negotiated settlement to the Russian-Ukrainian war that will ensure a lasting and durable peace.

– Marco Rubio, message from the U.S. Department of State

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola emphasized that Ukraine’s freedom is inseparable from the freedom of all Europe.

Greetings from Israel, Finland, and Australia

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar noted that this year also marks 35 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Israel and Ukraine. He described the relationship between the two countries as a strong partnership built on shared values.

We honor the resilience and steadfast spirit of the Ukrainian people, as well as their unwavering commitment to their freedom and independence. As Ukraine continues to overcome the serious challenges caused by the war, allow me to wish that the coming year brings security, prosperity, and lasting peace to Ukraine and its people.

– Gideon Sa’ar

Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen noted that the Finnish-Ukrainian partnership is based on shared values and cooperation. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, for his part, assured Ukraine of continued support.

As a sign of solidarity with Ukraine, the bell tower of Canada’s Parliament and the Prime Minister’s Office building in Ottawa were illuminated in blue and yellow. In this way, international partners joined in marking Ukraine’s Independence Day.