Ukraine Marks 35th Independence Day Amid Ongoing Russian Bombardment

Ukraine marked its 35th Independence Day on Monday under the shadow of persistent Russian strikes on civilian infrastructure. As European leaders joined President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv to demonstrate support, Zelenskyy declared that while Ukraine seeks peace, it will not surrender to Moscow's demands. Carrie Filipetti, executive director of the Vandenberg Coalition, told Fox News that Russian President Vladimir Putin is appearing 'panicked' due to Ukraine's recent military successes and its ability to conduct deep strikes within Russian territory. According to Filipetti, Russia's targeting of civilian areas—such as a recent strike on a shopping center in Kryvyi Rih that killed at least 16 people—is a calculated effort to break the Ukrainian public's will. Ukrainian authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant against potential sabotage and security risks during the anniversary. Filipetti noted that Russia is struggling with manpower shortages, forcing a reliance on foreign fighters. She emphasized that continued international support for Ukraine serves as a critical deterrent to other U.S. adversaries, including China and Iran, by demonstrating that unilateral invasions carry significant consequences.