Speeches

The Holodomor, which was recognized as genocide against our people by the totalitarian Stalinist regime, resulted in deaths of millions of Ukrainians. These are losses comparable to those suffered by Ukraine in World War II. How can one seek to destroy an entire nation? Why and for what? We will never be able to understand this. We will never be able to forget this. We will never be able to forgive this.

Together with you, we have to continue the difficult construction of a really new Ukraine every day. Free and worthy. Where the law will always come first, not last names or past merits. Where, years after the landmark historical event, there will be a museum, not a temporary structure. Where all the positive changes written on the posters held by the protesters in the cold winter will become a reality.

Under the Constitution of Ukraine, I deliver an address about the internal and external situation of Ukraine. And such an official beginning will be the only thing in common with the previous addresses of the Presidents of Ukraine.

A year ago in New York, we discussed threats to the international future, made plans and forecasts. But could anyone at least imagine that 2020 would stage such a crash test for the planet? Uniting efforts of all states is an absolute requirement of the time. Ukraine cannot stay aside.

Our "Mriya" flies to the sky so that God can see our dream. We put the right hand to the heart to overcome the problems with the left one. We are Ukrainians. Look in the mirror and you will see all of us there. This is us. Independent. But it all depends on us. Congratulations to you, fellow countrymen! Happy Independence Day of Ukraine!

Enough of quarrels and discord. Enough of manipulations and political games. Let's not divide Ukrainians and divide ourselves. Into the government or the opposition, left or right, red or blue. We need to stop being politicians. It's time to become statesmen. People who have not a big appetite, but a big dream. About a united, strong and invincible Ukraine.

What does it mean to me to cherish Ukraine? The answer is simple - to protect every Ukrainian. And it is the constitutional rights of a citizen that are a clue about how to do it. We must learn to respect each other's rights. Respect the law, not compete in cleverness as to how to circumvent it.

Today I had a meeting with the government and other authorized bodies regarding the flood in the west of Ukraine. The Prime Minister, the Minister of the Interior, and the Head of the State Emergency Service have been there since morning. We are doing everything possible to minimize and overcome the consequences of this natural disaster.

I hope you are fine, your parents are not sick, your children and grandchildren are healthy. Today it largely depends on your consciousness and discipline. We are able to contain the situation due to timely actions and your support. Let's continue this.

Dear citizens! We defeated Nazism 75 years ago. It took another 46 years for us to gain an independent Ukrainian state. And today, for the sixth year in a row, we are defending it. These are all pages of our history that unite and make us stronger.