U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio published an official congratulatory message on the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's independence. The text of the statement, posted on the website of the U.S. Department of State, emphasizes, according to RBC-Ukraine, that on this day Washington "once again reaffirms the strong partnership" between the two countries. In his address, the diplomat noted that on Independence Day Ukrainians honor their country's history and demonstrate "courage, innovation, and resilience."
Focus on sovereignty and negotiations
The central element of the statement was the wording on Washington's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty. "The United States is committed to Ukraine's sovereignty and continues to work to support a negotiated settlement of the Russia-Ukraine war that will ensure a lasting and strong peace," Rubio stated. The Secretary of State also underscored "a firm commitment to strengthening economic and security ties and charting a course toward peace and prosperity for both peoples," which reflects the dual vector of U.S. policy — supporting security while simultaneously working toward a diplomatic resolution of the conflict.
Andy Burnham's visit to Kyiv
Against the backdrop of the American congratulation, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham arrived in Kyiv on his first foreign visit in office. According to available information, he is set to hand over declassified data on SCALP missiles to Ukraine and for the first time chair a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing." The timing of the British prime minister's visit, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of independence, reinforces the signal of coordinated support for Kyiv from key Western capitals on the anniversary of the declaration of independence.
Context: 35 years of independence and the challenges
As RBC-Ukraine journalists previously noted on the eve of the 35th anniversary of independence, the country faces a number of internal and external difficulties: political scandals, the ongoing NABU investigation, and a difficult situation at the front ahead of winter. Against this backdrop, international statements of support — from Washington to London — are perceived as an attempt to consolidate Ukraine's foreign-policy backing at a time when, according to the outlet's assessment, the domestic agenda and combat operations create additional pressure.
Significance of the statement
The publication of the congratulation precisely on the anniversary of independence and on the day of the British prime minister's visit forms a unified information framework: the United States and the United Kingdom simultaneously reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and pledge further practical support — from intelligence data and weapons to diplomatic support for the negotiation track. Thus, August 24, 2026, became a date on which a symbolic congratulation coincided with concrete steps on security and coordination within the "Coalition of the Willing."
