EU Ambassador to Ukraine: 35 Years of Independence — Europe Stands with Ukraine

EU Ambassador Katarina Mathernova:

“Thirty-five years ago, Ukrainians chose independence from the Soviet Union. To this day, they are still paying for that choice with their lives!

Like defender Mykola Kravchenko, with call sign “Europe”. He was born in Berdyansk, became a lieutenant and platoon commander. The russians killed him in Donetsk region on 22 August 2024. He was 21. This morning in Kyiv, we honoured his grave.

It was a pleasure to accompany António Costa on his fifth trip to Kyiv in his capacity as European Council President.

We took the long journey on a Ukrainian train, the country’s vital connection with the world for almost five years. New British PM Andy Burnham and Luxembourg’s PM Luc Frieden were on the same train.

President Costa came to Kyiv with good news. The Commission today approved €6.1 billion for Ukraine’s air and missile defence, ammunition and radars. So yes, Europe is supporting Ukraine and will continue to do so.

I am happy the announcement came on  35th Independence Day. Because this is not just a date on the calendar. Not just a ceremony. It is the independence Ukrainians have been fighting for and protecting for almost five years in a full out war. Their right to exist as an independent and sovereign nation, to choose their own future and to remain free.

Our bilateral meetings with President Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Sergii Koretskyi and their teams reaffirmed the close relationship of Ukraine and EU.

Reflecting on today, I think that there is a lot Moscow simply does not understand. About the free world. About Ukraine. About the freedom of choice.

Happy Independence Day Ukraine!!” 

EU Delegation to Ukraine