President Volodymyr Zelenskyy marked Ukraine’s National Flag Day on August 23, 2025, by participating in a flag-raising ceremony at the Memorial Complex “National Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War.” This event served as a poignant reminder of the nation’s resilience, as Zelenskyy emphasized the flag’s symbolic representation of the sacrifices made by Ukrainian warriors defending their homeland.

In a day filled with diplomatic engagements, President Zelenskyy held discussions with Dick Schoof, focusing on security guarantees vital to Ukraine’s future. Zelenskyy highlighted collaborative efforts with the United States and European partners to establish a robust security framework. Schoof extended his congratulations to the Ukrainian people on their national day, underscoring the international support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

The President also engaged in a conversation with Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, reaffirming Ukraine’s readiness for dialogue with Russia. Zelenskyy urged the Global South to advocate for peace, as negotiations with Moscow remain stalled due to delays attributed to the Russian side.

In a strategic move, Ukraine synchronized sanctions with Canada, targeting individuals who support the Russian occupation. This decision, enacted by President Zelenskyy, reflects a concerted effort to impose international pressure on Russia to respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity.