Zelensky Congratulates on Statehood Day and the Day of Baptism of Rus.

The President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed Ukrainians on the occasion of Statehood Day and the Day of Baptism of Kyiv Rus-Ukraine, which is celebrated on July 15. In his address, he emphasized the continuity of state-building, the resilience of the Ukrainian people, and the value of life even in the darkest times.

The video was published on the President's Office channel on YouTube.

What Zelensky said

The President stressed that Ukrainians have always been, are, and will be on their land, and that values, humanity, and mutual support remain unchanged even during the war.

'This day is about connection. About all the stages of our state-building and what unites dozens of generations — those who lived on this land a thousand years ago and those who live now,' said the head of state.

Zelensky shared touching stories about how Ukrainians endure nights under bombardment: from soldiers holding the line at the front to children sleeping in the metro on inflatable mattresses, and elderly people who do not lose warmth and love for their relatives even in shelters.

'And we always have faith that this will happen. That’s how it has been for centuries, in Rus and in Sich, in all epochs, no matter what enemy came from which side, nothing hostile takes root on this land or establishes itself here. And Ukraine remains — remains itself,' he noted.

The President also thanked every Ukrainian — from soldiers and rescuers to teachers and volunteers — for the resilience, humanity, and strength that keep the state afloat in the hardest times.

'We are just people defending a home. Our home. And we can't do it any other way because we don't want to do it any other way. We don't want Russia to be here. That's the whole truth,' Zelensky said.

In conclusion, he reminded that the power of the state lies in its people and in unity.

'Because Ukrainians were here, Ukrainians are here, Ukrainians will be here,' the head of state concluded.