Zelenskyy points to defense industry in anniversary message: We are defeating Russia with technology and willpower

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in a video message released for the 35th anniversary of his country's independence that the struggle against Russia continues. Recalling that Ukraine declared its independence again on August 24, 1991, Zelenskyy said, "Ukraine was reborn 35 years ago."

Stating that they are on the 1643rd day of the Russia-Ukraine War, Zelenskyy expressed that the country is going through a very difficult period but that there is a strong solidarity keeping society standing. Noting that Ukrainians are fighting to defend their homeland, Zelenskyy said, "The Russians saw us as their little brother, but life proved to us that we are strangers."

Emphasizing that Ukraine has not given up its territory, Zelenskyy said that they are responding in the war not only with military force but also with technology and social resilience. The Ukrainian leader assessed, "We are already defeating Russia with willpower, technology, resilience, honor, and all of these things."

Touching on developments in the defense industry, Zelenskyy mentioned that unmanned naval vehicles are being used actively, stating, "The enemy had a fleet, it is turning into scrap." Stating that attacks on targets in Russia with long-range weapons continue, Zelenskyy expressed that more attacks should be carried out during the winter period with the "Flamingo" type cruise missiles developed by Ukraine.

Noting that Russian ballistic missiles continue to be a serious threat to Ukraine, Zelenskyy said that a solution would be found for this as well. Calling on the public to trust the army, Zelenskyy said, "This is Ukraine, the place where life wins despite the fifth year of the war."

Zelenskyy stated that they expect more support from Europe and the US for the war to end in a fair manner. In his call to international actors, the Ukrainian leader used the phrase, "China should no longer remain silent either."