Global leaders reiterate support on Ukraine’s Independence Day

International leaders have been expressing their solidarity with Ukraine today and reiterating their support on Independence Day.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson says the nation will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes, adding that every possible humanitarian, economic and military support will be provided.

These comments are echoed by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, saying that Europe is with Ukraine “today and in the long run”

The President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola adds the EU “will never cease to support Ukraine’s independence and its brave fight against the illegal Russian aggression”.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says the country’s hearts are with Ukraine today as it celebrates its national holiday under “terrible circumstances”.

He is joined by leaders from across Europe in wishing Ukraine a happy Independence Day, including the presidents of Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, and Moldova and foreign ministers in Poland and Turkey.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says his support remains “unequivocal and steadfast” and is rooted in its belief that international law must prevail to preserve the sovereignty of all nations.

Ukraine celebrates its independence day on Wednesday, commemorating 31 years since the country broke free from Russian dominance under the former Soviet Union.

August 24 also marks exactly six months since Vladimir Putin’s forces rolled across the border in a full-scale Russian invasion.

Anniversary events have been restricted amid security warnings of further Russian attacks.