The annual Day of Dignity and Freedom was celebrated today, Monday (21/11) by the president of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and referred to the sacrifices made by the Ukrainian people after invasion of Russia and saying that his country would endure and prevail.
In a taped message to the nation, Zelensky praised the contribution of Ukrainians –from soldiers, firefighters and paramedics to teachers who teach online, villagers who cook for the soldiers, tailors who sew uniforms and farmers who cultivate their fields despite the dangers.
He also praised their courageous stand despite frequent missile strikes, large-scale destruction, shortages and rolling blackouts as winter sets in, nine months after the Russian invasion.
“We can run out of money, out of gas, out of hot water, out of light. But not without freedom”Zelensky said in a message he addressed from a room of the presidential palace in the capital Kyiv, as reported by the Athens News Agency.
The Day of Dignity and Freedom commemorates the pro-European protests of 2013/2014, known as the Maidan Square Revolution, and the Orange Revolution of 2004. In both cases, the country’s leadership was overthrown.
Highlighting the courage of Ukrainians, Zelensky’s video included excerpts from the message he delivered on the same anniversary a year ago, when he was wearing a suit and tie. This year, he wore his trademark khaki T-shirt during the war.
“Our earth is full of craters”
“What has changed since then (a year ago)? Many. Our earth is full of craters. There are barricades and anti-tank defense barriers in our towns and villages. Maybe it’s dark on our streets. Maybe it’s cold in our houses,” said Zelensky.
“There are many changes, but the most important thing has not changed. Because the most important thing is not outside but inside. And it remains unchanged. And for this reason we will resist. We will endure.”
He said that in the future Ukrainians will gather in Kyiv’s Independence Square, which was a central point in the events of 2013/14 and 2004, “where we will celebrate the Victory Day of Ukraine. In a peaceful Kyiv, in a peaceful Ukraine».
Source: News Beast
Bruce Belcher is a seasoned author with over 5 years of experience in world news. He writes for online news websites and provides in-depth analysis on the world stock market. Bruce is known for his insightful perspectives and commitment to keeping the public informed.
