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Ukraine marks flag and independence day
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The gist
Ukraine marked its 35th Independence Day with flag-raising ceremonies in Kyiv, Washington, and beyond. The day underscored national resilience amid the ongoing war with Russia.
Background
Ukraine declared independence from the Soviet Union on August 24, 1991. This year marks the 35th anniversary, coming more than four years after Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. The war has given the holiday and the national flag heightened significance as symbols of resistance and unity.
How it unfolded
- Aug 22, 2026Ukrainians in Istanbul gathered for National Flag Day, holding portraits of missing soldiers and flags.
- Aug 23, 2026Ceremonies were held in Kyiv, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and Charlottetown, Canada, to mark National Flag Day and ahead of Independence Day.
- Aug 24, 2026Ukraine celebrates its 35th Independence Day; around 10 foreign leaders are expected in Kyiv, and the Coalition of the Willing is set to meet.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- President Zelenskyy said the flag 'symbolises what is most precious' to the soldiers defending Ukraine.
- Public
- Iryna Mazur in Philadelphia drew a parallel: 'America once fought for its right to become a free and independent nation. Ukraine is fighting today for the right to be free and to remain free.'
Still unverified
The exact number of foreign leaders expected in Kyiv (around 10) is based on an EU official's statement reported by AFP, not yet confirmed.