Zelensky calls on Ukrainians to unite
Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky has called on his compatriots to unite after nearly six months of war. “We have to keep fighting for Ukraine’s victory. There is still a lot to do. We have to stand firm and endure a lot, unfortunately also a lot of suffering,” said the head of government in a video message distributed on Saturday evening. Ukraine celebrates its Independence Day on August 24, exactly six months after the start of the Russian invasion.
Zelensky warned that Russia could use Wednesday’s Ukrainian festivities for special acts of violence. “So is our enemy. Also in every other week of this six months, Russia has done something so abhorrent and inhumane.” He referred, among other things, to the “Russian terror” in the Kharkov and Donbas region, where daily rockets strike and artillery attacks are endured.
President Zelensky also said he expects allies to visit in Kiev next week. “The war has changed everything for Ukraine, for Europe and for the world.” According to him, Russia’s aim is to humiliate its country and spread fear and discord. Therefore, no one should bow to the pressure and show weaknesses. “That’s why we stand together, we help each other, we rebuild what was destroyed and we fight for our people”.