Ukraine observed its 35th Independence Day on Monday with heightened security and under the continued threat of Russian attacks. The anniversary, commemorating the nation's 1991 declaration of independence from the Soviet Union, was marked by intensified Russian strikes on civilian infrastructure.
European leaders, including the President of the European Council and leaders from Finland, Lithuania, Norway, Denmark, Estonia, and Latvia, joined Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv for Independence Day events. This high-level participation underscored continued international support for Ukraine, according to former Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Carrie Filipetti, now executive director of the Vandenberg Coalition.
Filipetti stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is "panicked" as Ukrainian forces have successfully penetrated deeper into Russian territory, striking economic targets. She noted that Ukraine has targeted infrastructure including warehouses of online retailers Wildberries and Ozon. "Their success on the military front has now resulted in the Russians getting panicked and starting to attack more inside Ukraine and what they're really trying to do is weaken their will and capabilities," Filipetti said.
This strategy, Filipetti explained, involves targeting civilian areas to undermine Ukrainian morale. She pointed to a recent Russian drone strike on a shopping center in Kryvyi Rih, Zelenskyy’s hometown, which killed at least 16 people and injured 130. "He is not focused on targeting military assets. He is really focused on trying to defeat the will of Ukrainians by attacking them," she added.
Ukrainian authorities urged citizens to remain vigilant, particularly on public transport, and to guard against potential sabotage. They were also advised not to share media that could reveal military positions.
Filipetti warned that the targeting of civilian areas increases security risks during large public gatherings, especially those demonstrating patriotism and support for the Ukrainian state. She emphasized that Ukraine's resolve serves as a deterrent not only to Russia but also to other adversaries like China, Iran, and North Korea. "These adversaries of the United States really learn from how the United States handles conflicts in other theaters," Filipetti said. "It's really important that our adversaries of China, Russia, Iran, and others understand that if they invade another country unilaterally, there are going to be consequences, not rewards."