Till 2014 we hoped to develop Ukraine in prosperity and peace with every country. But our neighbor, who had been claiming for years to be a “brother”, a year ago had stabbed us in the back at first by occupying the Crimea. A few weeks later, Kremlin unleashed a hybrid war in the eastern part of Ukraine.

Hundreds of Ukrainian patriots have already sacrificed their lives fighting against pro-Russian terrorists and Russian troops in order to defend Ukraine, as well as peace and stability in Europe. Many hundreds of innocent civilians became victims of terrorists and Kremlin’s neo-imperialistic plans.

We are fighting for universal values — freedom, democracy, and territorial integrity. We are also fighting for the global peace.

The President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko made it clear that the diplomatic solution to the crisis would be the most sustainable. The Government of Ukraine is ready for dialogue in order to find a way out of this crisis. Our demands are simple: Ukraine should be a united, democratic and European state; the terrorists should cease fire, release hostages and leave our country.

Twenty four years ago, the people of Ukraine decided to escape the Soviet empire. Nothing will make us go back—neither military intimidation, nor economic coercion.

The future is being made now. The world should decide what it will sow today in order to reap it tomorrow. Russia should do the same. War never brings prosperity; only peace and mutual support do.

            Under these difficult conditions for Ukraine celebrating Independence Day takes on a new meaning. Fierce fighting for the preservation of the integrity of our country continues and we all need to unite and do everything possible to preserve the sovereignty and independence of our state.