On August 24, 2025, Ukraine marked its 34th Independence Day amid ongoing conflict, receiving public messages of solidarity from numerous European Union leaders and Canada, underscoring a unified front of support for Ukrainian sovereignty. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen took to X to declare, “Happy Independence Day, Ukraine!” while affirming that EU efforts are dedicated to a free and independent Ukraine, with Commission buildings illuminated in Ukrainian colors to symbolize resistance and hope. European Parliament President Roberta Metsola echoed this sentiment, posting about Europe’s unwavering commitment to peace built on Ukraine’s security and sovereignty, with the Parliament also displaying the Ukrainian flag. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney went further by visiting Kyiv in person, delivering a direct message of solidarity and pledging ongoing aid, including military support, to stand with Ukraine against aggression.

In stark contrast, the United States under President Donald Trump did not issue a public statement or social media post acknowledging the day, despite sending a private letter to President Zelenskyy with warm wishes and praise for Ukrainian courage. This reserved approach, lacking the visibility of other leaders’ gestures, has fueled speculation about shifting U.S. priorities, particularly given Trump’s historical skepticism toward extensive aid to Ukraine and his administration’s focus on negotiating an end to the war. While the letter represents some level of recognition, the absence of a high-profile public endorsement stands out against the backdrop of vocal support from EU nations and allies like Canada, potentially signaling a more transactional U.S. stance on Ukraine’s struggle.

Amid these diplomatic gestures, questions persist about the legitimacy of Ukraine’s 1991 Declaration of Independence during the Soviet Union’s collapse, primarily driven by Russian narratives that deny Ukrainian statehood. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Kremlin propaganda have long argued that Ukraine is not a genuine nation but an artificial construct, with historical borders imposed arbitrarily and lacking true independence from Russian influence. However, this view is widely refuted by international law and historical facts: the declaration was overwhelmingly ratified by a 92% yes vote in a nationwide referendum on December 1, 1991, and recognized by the global community, including the U.S. shortly thereafter. Such challenges to legitimacy serve as a pretext for Russia’s actions, but they underscore the enduring geopolitical tensions surrounding Ukraine’s sovereignty.