On August 24, 2026, on Ukraine's Independence Day, President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered his traditional address to the nation, in which, alongside congratulating citizens, he made a sharp foreign-policy statement. According to RBC-Ukraine, the head of state publicly addressed China, calling on Beijing to use its influence over Russian leader Vladimir Putin to protect both Ukraine and the entire world from a new large-scale escalation of the conflict.
Address to China: "Do Not Stay Silent" and "Cool Down the Eager"
In Zelensky's view, it is China that is truly capable of stopping the Kremlin's leader, "before it is too late." The address contained direct criticism of Moscow's rhetoric: "China must no longer remain silent. When someone (Putin — ed.) dresses up in a sailor's uniform and cap and, mispronouncing certain words, talks about a nuclear strike, China must react, must cool down the eager." The president emphasized that Beijing should demonstrate its ambitions as a world leader "not only economically and technologically, but also civilizationaly," showing that "no dictators should threaten the planet with their old warheads."
Appeal to the International Community and Warning of a New War
Zelensky once again reminded that Ukraine has never asked other countries to fight for it, although, in his words, it is in fact fighting for the peaceful future of the entire world. Against this backdrop, the head of state called on the international community to provide the Ukrainian Armed Forces with everything needed to stop Russian aggression. He warned that if this is not done in time, Putin could start yet another war — this time beyond Ukraine's borders.
Diplomatic Context: Negotiations, the US, and Holiday Security
The address fits within a broader diplomatic context: earlier, in July 2026, Zelensky reported that he had discussed with the American side the role of China and its potential in negotiations with Russia. On the occasion of Independence Day, the Ukrainian people were also addressed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. It is separately noted that the Security Service of Ukraine had warned citizens on the eve of the holiday about the threat of provocations and sabotage on Independence Day, which adds additional context to the resonance of the address.
