Ukraine marks Unity Day as Zelensky says the country will win against Russia

Kyiv, Ukraine - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a message of hope to the public as the nation marks Unity Day on January 22, saying he is confident of victory in his country's war against Russia.

President Volodymyr Zelensky marked Ukraine's Unity Day in a public address, saying he is confident his country will defeat Russia.
President Volodymyr Zelensky marked Ukraine's Unity Day in a public address, saying he is confident his country will defeat Russia.  © Sergei SUPINSKY / AFP

Russia's attack on February 24 led to a "new revival of our Ukrainian unity," he said in an emotional video addressing the nation to mark the day.

Millions of people in Ukraine are standing together today to defend their country, he said, and also highlighted historical sites in different regions of Ukraine.

"Each region protects the other," Zelensky said. "And all of us together are defending Kiev. And all of us together defend Kharkiv. And all of us together are liberating Kherson."

viral videos: Viral Video of the Day for April 19, 2024: Little girl instantly regrets calling cops: "Lock the doors!"
Viral Video of the Day Viral Video of the Day for April 19, 2024: Little girl instantly regrets calling cops: "Lock the doors!"

The city of Kherson is under Ukrainian control, but most of the area of the same name is occupied by Russian troops.

"And we will win. Together. And all of Ukraine will hear the sounds of victory," said Zelensky.

He again said the whole of Ukraine would be liberated, including Crimea, annexed by Moscow in 2014.

The country celebrates the Day of Ukrainian Unity on January 22, marking the proclamation of the 1919 Act of Unification between the Ukrainian People's Republic and the West Ukrainian People's Republic.

Civilian casualties have continued throughout active fighting in the country, as the US has pledged to supply billions more in new aid packages to assist Ukraine.

Cover photo: Sergei SUPINSKY / AFP

More on Ukraine conflict: