Trump urges lasting peace in Independence Day message to Ukraine
Donald Trump, President of the United States (photo: Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump congratulated Ukrainians on the 35th anniversary of their independence, praising the resilience of the Ukrainian people and urging them to seize the current moment to achieve lasting peace, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
The US leader recalled 35 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries and reaffirmed unwavering support for Ukraine's sovereign and prosperous future.
"On behalf of the American people, I congratulate you and the citizens of Ukraine on your Independence Day. August 24 is a day to celebrate our enduring friendship built on 35 years of diplomatic relations, a bond that has only deepened since Ukraine gained its independence. With courageous, brave, and talented people, you have built a great country," Trump's letter reads.
The US leader also emphasized that the United States admires your "resilient spirit, honors your sacrifices," and remains confident in Ukraine's future as a sovereign and prosperous nation.
In his message, Trump also focused specifically on the prospect of ending the war and establishing a lasting peace.
"Let us seize this moment to end the conflict and build a durable, lasting peace that unleashes the tremendous potential of Ukraine for generations to come," he wrote.
Zelenskyy's reaction to the letter
The Ukrainian president thanked his American counterpart and the entire US people for their congratulations and support. Zelenskyy compared the letter from the White House to the work of air defense.
"These words, much like the sound of a Patriot PAC-3 launch, lift our spirits and give hope that lives can be protected from Russia's savage attacks and that a dignified peace can be achieved," the president wrote.
Zelenskyy, in his Independence Day message, emphasized that 35 years ago, Ukraine was reborn, restored its independence, and proved to friends and enemies that it would fight for it, no matter how difficult it might be.
On the eve of and on Independence Day, Ukraine's partners announced several important defense measures. These included preparations for Gripen aircraft, the transfer of SCALP missile technology, and new agreements on joint drone production.
