President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered a video address on Monday urging the international community to increase pressure on Russia [1, 2].
The speech comes as Ukraine marks a significant milestone in its national history while continuing to fight a prolonged war of aggression. Zelenskyy said that diplomatic efforts may be stalled by the Kremlin's current objectives.
Speaking on Aug. 24, 2026, Zelenskyy marked the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's independence [1]. He said that Russia does not want peace and suggested that the Russian leadership continues to hold hopes for a different outcome in the conflict [1, 2].
The president called for more robust support from global allies to force a resolution. He said that the current trajectory of the war requires a shift in how the world applies pressure to Moscow [1, 2].
Zelenskyy's address was broadcast to the Ukrainian people, likely from Kyiv, as the nation observed the holiday under wartime conditions [1, 2]. The video served as both a commemoration of sovereignty and a strategic plea for continued military and political backing [1].
Throughout the address, the president emphasized that Ukraine is already defeating Russia in various capacities, though he maintained that the path to full victory requires sustained international resolve [1]. He framed the anniversary not just as a celebration of the past, but as a critical juncture for the country's future survival [1, 2].
“Russia does not want peace”
By framing the 35th anniversary of independence around the refusal of Russia to seek peace, Zelenskyy is signaling to Western allies that ceasefire negotiations may be premature. The emphasis on increased international pressure suggests that Kyiv views further escalation of sanctions or military aid as the only viable leverage to force the Kremlin toward a settlement.
