Ukraine marks its Independence Day, achieved in 1991—a pivotal moment that sealed the fate of the Soviet Union—with congratulatory messages pouring in from around the world, including China. While this is standard diplomatic practice, the current context lends the gestures added significance.
President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly shared these messages on social media. Among them, a statement from Donald Trump struck a firm tone: “The time has come to end this senseless slaughter,” it read. “The United States supports a negotiated agreement that leads to lasting peace, stops the bloodshed, and safeguards Ukraine’s sovereignty and dignity.”
Zelensky, speaking during the celebrations, was equally resolute: “A united Ukraine will never again be forced into what the Russians call compromise—we need a just peace. We alone will decide our future. The world knows this. The world respects this. It respects Ukraine.”
In a related development, G7 foreign ministers convened to discuss security guarantees. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas emphasized after the meeting: “On this Independence Day, the EU joins G7 partners in sending a clear message of unwavering support: Ukraine is a vibrant democracy under attack, and Russia must end the killings and demonstrate a genuine will for peace.” She added, “Ukraine deserves a safe and independent future, free from war and fear.”
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov responded dismissively, dampening hopes for a near-term agreement. He accused Western countries of “attempting to block peace talks” and expressed hope that these efforts “will be thwarted.” He also downplayed the prospect of a Putin-Zelensky summit, insisting such high-level meetings “must be thoroughly prepared.” Lavrov dismissed Zelensky’s push for direct talks as “theatrics.”
Further complicating the situation, the Wall Street Journal reported that the Pentagon had for months restricted Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles for strikes deep inside Russia. According to sources, a high-level approval process at the Defense Department had prevented Kyiv from launching ATACMS at Russian targets since late spring. Zelensky countered, stating Ukraine used “its own weapons” for such operations and does not consult Washington on the matter. This has accelerated the development of domestic long-range drones to bypass restrictions, which are not unique to the U.S.
Meanwhile, negotiations on security guarantees continue. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani reaffirmed Italy’s “full support” for Kyiv and noted progress on the Italian proposal to provide guarantees modeled on NATO’s Article 5, with U.S. involvement. “We are not in favor of sending troops,” Tajani clarified, “but we could make an important contribution with our extensive experience in maritime and land de-mining. We will see how things develop.”
However, Zelensky, standing alongside visiting Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, stressed that the issue of “boots on the ground” remains important for Ukraine. Italy, not least due to its constitutional constraints, is not alone in its hesitation; Germany faces similar reservations. The ongoing negotiations aim to find a consensus amid these diverging positions.