On the occasion of the 34th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence from the Soviet Union, we, the Young European Federalists, reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine, the Ukrainian people, and the Ukrainian nation. Today, as Ukraine continues to fight for its survival and sovereignty against Russian aggression, we recognize both the courage of its people and the profound significance of their struggle for the future of Europe.

The promise that followed the end of the Cold War was one of a rules-based international order, guaranteed by the UN Charter, where sovereignty would be respected as an untouchable right of all states. Yet, today we live in an era in which borders are once again redrawn by violence, where force seeks to override law, and where tyranny threatens the weak. It is in this context that Ukraine continues to resist Russia’s attempts to subjugate its people, erase its identity, and destroy its independence.

Ukraine’s resistance is not merely an act of self-defense, as enshrined in Article 51 of the UN Charter. It is a defense of the very foundations of international law and the principle that all nations have the right to freely choose their own future without coercion or fear. Ukraine stands not only for its own freedom, but for the peace, stability, and security of the entire European continent.

As Ukraine fights for its very existence, it is the responsibility of the international community, and especially of Europe, to stand firmly by its side. This war can only end in one way: with the triumph of law over lawlessness and with a free, independent, and sovereign Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. If the Ukrainian people choose to join the European Union, then it is our conviction that they should be welcomed wholeheartedly, to cement their place as an integral part of the European family.

No act of Russian aggression will ever alter Ukraine’s chosen path. Time and again, in the Orange Revolution and the Revolution of Dignity, the Ukrainian people have declared their will to move towards democracy, towards Europe, and towards freedom. As committed European federalists, we stand firmly in support of this choice, for we believe that only a united and federal Europe can guarantee lasting peace and security for all its peoples, including Ukraine.

On this Independence Day, we once again reaffirm our solidarity with Ukraine and call on all nations to uphold international law and support Ukraine in its brave struggle. As Europeans, we know all too well the dangers of nationalism and authoritarianism, which we see manifest in Russia today. It is our collective responsibility to resist these threats, to remember the lessons of history, and to ensure that freedom and democracy prevail.

Federazione Europea Subito!
Slava Ukraini! Heroyam Slava!

This statement is issued in collaboration with JEF Ukraine.