Flag Day: A Celebration of National Identity
On Saturday, August 23, Ukraine celebrates Flag Day, a symbol of national identity and statehood.
The holiday was established by the President's decree on August 23, 2004, to honor the history of Ukrainian state-building and to foster respect for national symbols.
The blue and yellow colors of the Ukrainian flag have ancient roots, dating back to the times of Kyivan Rus. During the revolutions of 1848, the blue and yellow banner became a symbol of the Ukrainian people's struggle for freedom. It was first raised over the town hall in Lviv in June of that year.
In recent history, the national flag was officially hoisted for the first time on March 14, 1990, in the town hall of Stryi, and in Kyiv, it happened later on July 24, 1990.
On August 23, 1991, the blue and yellow flag was brought into the session hall of the Verkhovna Rada, and on September 4, it was ceremoniously raised above the parliament building.
After the onset of aggression from Russia, the blue and yellow flag became a symbol of the Ukrainian people's fight for their independence.
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President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the Ukrainian people, congratulating them on Flag Day and emphasizing the importance of protecting our land from occupiers.
He noted that the flag is a symbol of hope for many Ukrainians in temporarily occupied territories who believe in victory.
Our flag represents the strength and courage of thousands of Ukrainian warriors who fight for freedom and independence.
Zelensky also thanked everyone who fights for our state for their courage and dedication.
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The blue and yellow flag is a symbol of dignity and resilience for the Ukrainian nation, stated Minister of Defense Denys Shmyhal.
He emphasized that this flag is a protector for the soldiers defending our country, as well as a symbol of support for those working for Ukraine's welfare.
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The blue and yellow flag has become an embodiment of the values upheld by the Ukrainian people, noted Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha.
He added that the flag symbolizes freedom, solidarity, and hope for all Ukrainians.
The Minister expressed gratitude to all who support Ukraine during these challenging times.
