Ukraine’s Unity Day is celebrated annually on Jan. 22, marking the proclamation of the Act of Unification between the Ukrainian People's Republic (UNR) and the Western Ukrainian People's Republic (ZUNR) in 1919. This historic event symbolized the formal unification of two previously divided parts of Ukraine into a single, independent state.
He recalled that it was on this very square that the Act of Unification was proclaimed hundred years ago.
“Ambition, internal discord, and enemies — both external and internal — prevented independent Ukraine from existing for long," he said.
"Our statehood was lost. And with it, our freedom. Generations lived under foreign flags, foreign traditions, being told how to live, speak, think, who to love, and who to hate. This is what losing independence means.”
Zelenskyy underscored that on Feb. 24, 2022, Ukrainians were forced to prove how vital it is to stand united. The full-scale Russian invasion became a test of strength, maturity, and faith in Ukraine.
"Millions of us stood together," he highlighted.
"And together, we endured, defended Ukraine, and held back the invader. This word—'together'—holds the strength of Ukrainians. It defines what we can achieve when we put aside personal ambitions and choose Ukraine instead."
The president recalled the early days of the war, when there weren’t enough weapons for all the volunteers, but there was no shortage of courage, resilience, and faith in Ukraine.
“Unity is not just about two banks of the Dnipro River — it’s about the entire world standing with Ukraine,” he added.
Ukrainian President expressed confidence that future generations would continue to gather at Sofia Square, under the blue and yellow flag, in an independent and united Ukraine.
“We will do everything to make sure they are proud of us, that we do not repeat past mistakes," he assured.
"Ukraine is here. Ukraine is whole. Peaceful. United.”