Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2022

August 24, 2022

On behalf of all Americans, I congratulate the people of Ukraine on their Independence Day. Over the past 6 months, Ukrainians have inspired the world with their extraordinary courage and dedication to freedom. They have stood resolute and strong in the face of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. And today is not only a celebration of the past, but a resounding affirmation that Ukraine proudly remainsâand will remainâa sovereign and independent nation.

The United States of America is committed to supporting the people of Ukraine as they continue the fight to defend their sovereignty. As part of that commitment, I am proud to announce our biggest tranche of security assistance to date: approximately $2.98 billion of weapons and equipment to be provided through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. This will allow Ukraine to acquire air defense systems, artillery systems and munitions, counterâ unmanned aerial systems, and radars to ensure it can continue to defend itself over the long term.

I know this Independence Day is bittersweet for many Ukrainians as thousands have been killed or wounded, millions have been displaced from their homes, and so many others have fallen victim to Russian atrocities and attacks. But 6 months of relentless attacks have only strengthened Ukrainians' pride in themselves, in their country, and in their 31 years of independence. Today and every day, we stand with the Ukrainian people to proclaim that the darkness that drives autocracy is no match for the flame of liberty that lights the souls of free people everywhere. The United States, including proud Ukrainian Americans, looks forward to continuing to celebrate Ukraine as a democratic, independent, sovereign and prosperous state for decades to come.

Categories: Statements by the President : Ukrainian Independence Day.

Subjects: Holidays and special observances : Ukrainian Independence Day; Russia : Ukraine, airstrikes and invasion; Ukraine : Independence Day; Ukraine : Russian airstrikes and invasion; Ukraine : U.S. assistance.

DCPD Number: DCPD202200722.

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