On July 15, 2026, Ukraine marked its Statehood Day with a solemn ceremony in Kyiv, remembering the warriors who have fallen in the defense of the nation. The event, which coincided with the Day of the Baptism of Kyivan Rus–Ukraine, was attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska, alongside various international dignitaries. The commemoration gathered an array of global leaders including President Bajram Begaj from Albania, Moldova’s President Maia Sandu, Romania’s President Nicușor Dan, Slovenian Prime Minister Janez Janša, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, and Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission. Additional attendees were First Deputy Prime Minister Bekim Sali from North Macedonia, Deputy Prime Minister Filip Ivanović of Montenegro, Bulgarian Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova-Chamova, French President’s Special Envoy Muriel Lacoue-Labarthe, and Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, the Holy See’s Special Envoy. The group of leaders and representatives laid flowers at Kyiv’s Wall of Remembrance and held a moment of silence, honoring those who have sacrificed their lives. The ceremony underscored Ukraine’s appreciation of its allies and the ongoing support from the international community amidst its challenges. Post navigation Ukraine, France Boost Defense Ties