On Victory Day over Nazism and in memory of those who fought for freedom at the cost of their lives, President Volodymyr Zelensky gave an unexpected and deeply emotional address from the center of Kyiv
The video he posted on social media was recorded on Khreshchatyk — a symbolic artery of the Ukrainian capital, which for over three years has become a place where the people's choice is reflected with the greatest emotional intensity: in memory, in struggle, and in perseverance against evil. Zelensky compared Maidan Nezalezhnosti today with its pre-war state to a horrifying parade of fear looming over Russian aggression. In his words, he highlighted the difference between the lives of Ukrainians and the propaganda parade demonstrated by Moscow. He emphasized that this day is not just a symbolic date but a sign of confidence that evil will never triumph on Ukrainian land. The head of state noted that today Ukraine firmly defends its independence, and the best illustrative example is Kyiv — a city that just three years ago was almost empty but now breathes and lives fully. He recalled the historical events that took place exactly three years ago: on this very festive day, near shimmering lights and flowers in the city center, Russian military equipment was destroyed — a symbol of Ukrainian invincibility. This was a demonstration of the resilience and perseverance of the Ukrainian people, which, according to the president, prevented evil from dragging them into an abyss. Zelensky did not hold back his emotions, expressing bitterness that Russia still plans to celebrate a parade directed against Ukraine and its heroes. He stated that the Putin regime is preparing a “parade of fear, cynicism, and lies” in Kyiv, with columns of Russian tanks and a march that symbolizes a total imitation of victory where it has long been lost. The president is convinced that Moscow is staging this “show” with “boxes of killers and semi-living faces,” hinting at the theatricality and fakery of this staged spectacle. Zelensky stressed that “we can repeat” is not just a slogan but an illusion of impunity for evil, which Ukraine will now see openly and loudly. He warned the world against the illusion that Russia will ever “come to terms,” emphasizing that fighting this must be a collective effort, as dozens of nations fought similar horrors three decades ago. The enemy reminds us of the cruelest times of Hitler’s invasion, and the Ukrainian president called on the world once again to realize: evil should not be appeased, it must be destroyed. He also recalled the heroes celebrated by the entire nation. He emphasized that over 8 million Ukrainians died fighting against Nazism — each leaving a legacy that is now cherished and kept in hearts. The entire Ukrainian people have their heroes — those who fought and are still fighting against the new evil. The president also mentioned the memorial at Maidan Nezalezhnosti, which, according to him, has become a symbol of the people's memory and gratitude. Initially, it was just an A4 sheet, but now it is a place where everyone can leave a flag, a photograph, or a candle — a testament to human respect and gratitude. “It is not just a monument built on command. It is the human desire to pay tribute to the best of Ukrainians. It is another proof of the abyss between us and evil. For them, the idol is the grandfather on Red Square who took millions of lives. For us, heroes are among us,” Zelensky emphasized. In conclusion, he called on the world and Ukraine to change, to become stronger and better prepared to resist evil. Russia must either change itself or be changed by the entire world to stop this aggression. According to him, Ukrainians remember the lessons of history: thirty years ago, there was victory over fascism, and today is the time to prevent the return of crimes that can once again engulf humanity. Zelensky assured that the fight continues and will go on, because Ukraine is a country that has won its future and will not allow evil to return. This sincere address was a call to the entire world not to be indifferent and to remember: victory belongs to those who fight for truth, freedom, and humanity.