Trump sends letter of support on Ukraine’s Independence Day as Zelensky declares Kyiv ‘will not lose’ the war

US President Donald Trump joined other world leaders on Sunday, August 24, in sending messages of support to Ukraine as it celebrated its 34th Independence Day amid an ongoing war and stalled peace talks.

In a letter shared by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump praised Ukraine’s resilience and said the United States believes in its future as an independent nation.

He wrote, “The people of Ukraine have an unbreakable spirit, and your country’s courage inspires many. As you mark this important day, know the United States respects your fight, honors your sacrifices, and believes in your future as an independent nation.”

Trump added that it was time to end the “senseless killing” and reaffirmed US support for a negotiated settlement leading to lasting peace while safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Zelensky thanked Trump for his message, telling Ukrainians, “Ukraine has not yet fully won, but it will certainly not lose. Ukraine is stronger, has self-respect, and will never again be forced into compromises that bring shame. Our future will be decided by us alone.”

The Independence Day celebrations also saw messages from Chinese President Xi Jinping, Britain’s King Charles, Pope Leo XIV, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who made his first official visit to Kyiv, promising “unwavering” support.

Despite diplomatic efforts, heavy bombardment continued with Russian officials claiming a Ukrainian drone strike caused a fire near the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant, though background radiation levels were reported as stable. Ukrainian authorities have not commented on the claim.