UK’s Statement to the OSCE on Ukrainian Independence Day 2026: A Commitment to Sovereignty and Freedom

Thank you, Mr Chair.

Today, Ukraine commemorates 35 years of its independence. On 24 August 1991, the citizens of Ukraine made a decisive choice for sovereignty, asserting their right to exist as a free and independent nation alongside others. This choice was overwhelmingly supported and recognised by the international community, including the Russian Federation.

Fast forward thirty-five years, and Ukraine finds itself defending that very choice against an unlawful war of aggression launched by Russia. President Putin initiated this conflict out of a refusal to acknowledge Ukraine as a sovereign state, a unique nation, and a free people. He dismissed Ukraine’s reality, expecting its citizens to surrender. Instead, they have demonstrated remarkable resilience and independence, reminding the world that the desire of people to defend their freedom and security is always stronger than the forces that seek to undermine it.

The Failure of Russia’s Objectives

Russia’s central objective in this war has not come to fruition. Ukraine’s identity is not dictated by the Kremlin; it is woven into the daily lives of its people, manifesting in their language, culture, national service, and their unwavering resolve to shape their own destiny.

This conflict transcends mere territorial disputes; it fundamentally revolves around issues of identity, sovereignty, and culture. Russia’s ambitions are not limited to the acquisition of Ukrainian land; they also aim to stifle Ukrainian existence. We have witnessed Russian assaults on sites of cultural and religious significance, coercion of communities in occupied areas, and efforts to distort the historical narrative taught to Ukrainian children about their own nation.

The latest report from the Moscow Mechanism highlights this troubling trend, detailing how Russia has subjected Ukrainian youth to indoctrination and militarisation through various educational and youth programmes. This is part of Russia’s broader strategy to undermine Ukraine by attacking its future.

The Impact of Ongoing Aggression

Russia has not attained the political subjugation it sought nor the military triumph it anticipated. Consequently, it resorts to terror and destruction, deploying missiles and drones against homes, energy infrastructure, schools, hospitals, and sites of cultural and religious importance.

In the early hours of 19-20 August, Russia executed another extensive missile assault on Ukraine, resulting in the deaths of at least 17 civilians. The next day, Russian drones targeted a bustling shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih, claiming the lives of a further 16 individuals and injuring over 130 more. Such attacks will not diminish Ukraine’s determination; rather, they lay bare the brutality inherent in Russia’s campaign.

Defending Fundamental Principles

Ukraine’s struggle is one for its survival, but it also embodies a broader fight for the principles that underpin Euro-Atlantic security: sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inherent right of peoples to determine their own futures. The independence of Ukraine, along with its resilience, serves as a reminder that these principles can only endure when actively defended.

This is why the United Kingdom stands firmly alongside Ukraine, including here at the OSCE. Our commitment to Ukraine’s legitimate right to self-defence reinforces the foundational principles upon which European security is built. We will not be swayed by threats emanating from the Russian Federation. Russia should be unequivocally aware of the United Kingdom’s resolve to counter Russian aggression, whether directed at Ukraine or against the UK and our allies.

Celebrating Ukraine’s Courage and Commitment

On this Independence Day, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the people of Ukraine. They made a free choice for independence 35 years ago, and they continue to defend that choice with immense courage today. The United Kingdom will steadfastly support Ukraine in its legitimate self-defence and in the quest for a just and enduring peace, for as long as it may take.

Thank you.