Ukraine marked 31 years of independence from the Soviet Union on Wednesday, despite warnings from Moscow that it would intensify attacks on civilians.
Boris Johnson paid a surprise visit to the President of Ukraine.
Concerns that Russian forces could target festivities were the reason why mass events for Independence Day were banned.
Instead of the usual march, there was a parade of destroyed Russian military gear.
Smaller events such as flag ceremonies, concerts and people gathering to create art were used to mark the day in other cities, a number of which also faced heightened restrictions.
Boris Johnson made a surprise visit to the Ukrainian capital where he received the country's highest honor that can be given to foreign nationals.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that a new nation emerged when Russia invaded. He vowed to "fight until the end." Zelensky said he didn't think the war would end in peace and that there would be no concessions to Moscow. We used to say, 'peace.' He said, "Now we say: triumph."
The world's leaders spoke out in support of the country. The European Commission, the executive branch of the European Union, and President Joe Biden announced a $3 billion military aid package to support the war effort.
A group of people paint a canvas in honor of independence day.
Russian military equipment has been destroyed.
A woman walks down a street lined with tanks.
A child is standing on top of a Russian tank.
The Luhansk Regional Philimonic has a symphony orchestra.
The day before Independence Day, a flag raising ceremony is taking place.
The Prime minister's cat sits in front of a flower arch.
There is a giant Ukrainian flag at the Grand- Place.
A look at what has happened so far in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The U.S. Warns about Russia stepping up civilian strikes as Ukraine prepares for independence day.
Biden announced a $3 billion arms package as the war began.
Russia's power image has been damaged by six months of Putin's war.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
