Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy honored the country’s blue-and-yellow flag during a National Flag Day address in Kyiv, describing it as a symbol of Ukraine’s independence, resilience and resistance to Russia’s invasion. The ceremony took place on Aug. 23, on the eve of the 35th anniversary of Ukraine’s restored independence. Zelenskyy highlighted a historic flag carried into the Verkhovna Rada after Ukraine declared independence in 1991. He recalled that Ukrainian flags were once sewn secretly under Soviet rule, saying the preservation of the national colors reflected the country’s determination to retain its identity. The president accused Russia and President Vladimir Putin of seeking to erase Ukraine’s independence and said Moscow’s military campaign had strengthened Ukrainian resistance. He described the flag as representing freedom, courage and the country’s continued struggle for survival. Zelenskyy also thanked leaders from Finland, Denmark, Norway, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia for attending the ceremony and supporting Ukraine. He paid tribute to those killed in the war and expressed hope that Ukraine’s greatest victory would be the restoration of peace. Post navigation Zelenskyy Highlights Defense, Veteran Policy Zelenskyy Urges Continued Support for Ukraine