On the 34th anniversary of Ukraine's Independence, senior American officials declared their unwavering support for Kyiv and called for a just peace. At the same time, the United States agreed to supply Ukraine with over three thousand long-range aircraft missiles. Ukraine's Independence Day has become a platform for consolidating international solidarity and support against Russian aggression.
The United States approved the sale of over 3 thousand aircraft missiles to Ukraine - WSJ
The administration of US President Donald Trump has approved the sale of 3,350 ERAM aircraft missiles with a range of up to 450 kilometers to Ukraine. This was reported by The Wall Street Journal citing American officials. The cost of the arms package is $850 million, and it is financed mainly by European partners. It is expected that the first deliveries could begin within six weeks.
The ERAM missiles are capable of striking targets at a distance of 240 to 450 kilometers, but their use will require approval from the Pentagon. This decision was an important addition to the military assistance already provided and is evidence of the strengthening of cooperation between Kyiv and Washington. In addition, Ukraine continues to develop its own long-range systems, including the new Flamingo cruise missile, which is due to enter production by the end of the year.
Russia's war against Ukraine will not end overnight, - Vance
US Vice President J.D. Vance said that Russia's war against Ukraine cannot end instantly, as the negotiation process requires time and flexibility on the part of the parties. In an interview with NBC News he noted that Moscow has made some concessions for the first time in a long time, demonstrating its willingness to engage in dialogue. Despite this, agreements on ending the war have not yet been reached, and Washington continues to insist on a diplomatic settlement. According to Vance, Donald Trump is conducting “aggressive” and “energetic” diplomacy, because this war is not beneficial to the United States, Europe, Russia itself or Ukraine.
“Of course, they have not yet reached a full agreement, otherwise the war would have already ended, but we are participating in the diplomatic process in good faith. We are trying to negotiate with both the Russians and the Ukrainians to find a compromise and stop the killings,” Vance said.
Vance stressed that the negotiation process is complex and contains both ups and downs. Sometimes it seems that progress is close, but then disappointment sets in due to Russia’s intransigence. The American vice president emphasized that the White House is doing everything possible to end the war, but the path to peace remains difficult. He added that the outcome will depend on whether the Ukrainians and the Russians can find an acceptable compromise.
Trump's Special Envoy Kellogg to Discuss Security Guarantees in Kyiv
Trump's Special Envoy Keith Kellogg arrived in Kyiv and took part in the celebrations for Ukraine's Independence Day. The visit taking place against the backdrop of active discussions between the United States, Ukraine and Europe on security guarantees for Ukraine.
During his visit to Ukraine, Kellogg discussed with representatives of the Ukrainian government the prospects for establishing a just and lasting peace for Ukraine, an agreement between Ukraine and the United States on minerals.
Kellogg will remain in Ukraine until August 25, plans to participate in a traditional prayer breakfast and hold talks with the Ukrainian leadership on diplomatic initiatives and security guarantees.
Kellogg's previous visit to Ukraine took place last month. During his stay in Kyiv, the Russians did not strike the Ukrainian capital.
"Your courage is inspiring," - Trump
Donald Trump congratulated Ukraine on Independence Day. According to him, only the joint strength and solidarity of the international community can stop the war and ensure stability in Europe. On behalf of the American people, Trump expressed his congratulations and best wishes to Zelensky and “the courageous people of Ukraine on the occasion of their 34th anniversary of independence.”
“The people of Ukraine have an indomitable spirit, and the courage of your country inspires many. On this important day, know that the United States respects your struggle, honors your sacrifices, and believes in your future as an independent nation,” the American president wrote.
Trump said that it was time to “end the senseless killing.”
“The United States supports negotiations for a settlement that will lead to a strong, lasting peace that will end the bloodshed and protect the sovereignty and dignity of Ukraine,” he added.
Zelensky thanked the US President and world leaders for congratulations on Independence Day
President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to world leaders for their congratulations on the 34th anniversary of Ukraine's Independence. Among those who sent congratulations were US President Donald Trump, Chinese leader Xi Jinping, the Pope, King Charles III of Great Britain, as well as leaders of European states. Zelensky noted the special support of the United States, which, according to him, "stands shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine, defending independence, freedom and guaranteed peace."
The President emphasized that only through joint efforts can we achieve true peace and an end to the war. In his address, he also thanked the leaders of Turkey, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Lithuania, and Sweden for their support for Ukraine. Zelensky recalled that this year's celebration is taking place for the fourth time during a full-scale war, which emphasizes the resilience and indomitability of the Ukrainian people.
Rubio congratulates Ukrainians on Independence Day
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, on behalf of the American government, congratulated the Ukrainian people on the 34th anniversary of Independence. In his address he emphasized the US commitment to the future of Ukraine as a sovereign and independent state. Rubio noted that Washington sees the path to lasting peace only through negotiations that will confirm Ukrainian sovereignty and ensure long-term security.
The American diplomat also emphasized the US readiness to develop an economic and security partnership with Ukraine. He emphasized that both countries share a vision of a peaceful and prosperous future.
“The United States is committed to the future of Ukraine as an independent state,” Rubio said.
Author: Danylo Pievchev