Address by President of the Republic of Lithuania Gitanas Nausėda on the occasion of the Independence Day of Ukraine
President of the Republic of Lithuania
August 24, 2023
Glory to Ukraine!
Dear Volodymyr,
Ukrainian brothers and sisters,
Congratulations on Independence Day! I am deeply honored to celebrate it together with the fighting people of Ukraine.
Thirty two years ago, you rose to a new life after years of oppression. To a free future that entire generations of Ukrainians have been dreaming of. To the hope of justice, described so eloquently by your beloved Kobzar.
The brutal aggressor is trying to take all this, and more, away from you. By trampling on the norms of the civilized world, Russia is trying to erase the Ukrainian identity. By killing innocent people, it seeks to destroy the future of Ukraine and Europe.
But the Ukrainian people are resisting and not giving up. In the eyes of the whole world, you are setting an unparalleled example of courage and resolve.
The fire of sacred love for Homeland, which shone so brightly at the Maidan of Independence, is shining across the entire Ukraine today. It inspires free people all over the world.
Today, I want to reaffirm that you are not alone. From the very first days of this war, Lithuania has been passionately supporting and firmly standing behind Ukraine.
We will never recognize the occupation and annexation of Crimea and other Ukrainian territories. Because Crimea is Ukraine! Because Donetsk and Luhansk, Mariupol and Melitopol are Ukraine!
As we look back on the many centuries of our shared history, we know that you will prevail. Victory means peace, security and lasting prosperity. Victory means hope that thousands of victims of Russia's aggression and their loved ones will see justice.
Lithuania will continue to provide you with every support. Together, we will rebuild Ukraine and work towards making your country part of the Euro-Atlantic community.
Our vision today is a strong Ukraine in a strong Europe!
I believe that Ukraine will one day become a member of both the European Union and NATO. The aggressor will not determine Ukraine's destiny!
The freedom loving Ukrainian people are taking their destiny into their own hands. As Taras Shevchenko said:
Keep fighting — you are sure to win!
God helps you in your fight!
I have no doubt that truth, strength, and sacred freedom will help you to continue the fight. I believe that we will celebrate the next Independence Day with victory.
Long live, independent Ukraine!
The President's Communication Group
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