Selensky recalls the beginning of the Maidan protests
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recalled the beginning of the pro-European protests in the capital Kiev in 2013. "Ten years ago, we carried out our first counter-offensive," he said in a video message against the backdrop of European Square in Kiev.
This fight was waged against lawlessness, lack of freedom and for a European future. He described the protests at the time as the first victory in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Selenskyj: Ukraine's future lies in the EU
Together with his wife Olena and Moldovan President Maia Sandu, Zelenskyi commemorated the demonstrators who were killed and placed lanterns at a memorial site.
"The cold winter nights of Euromaidan have changed Europe forever," wrote EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in the short message service X on the anniversary. Ukraine has been striving for freedom with dignity and pride for ten years. Today, it is clearer than ever that the country's future lies in the European Union.
EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola expressed similar sentiments. "The Maidan revolution has changed the future of Ukraine forever," she wrote. "While Ukraine defends our values, our support grows stronger with every missile fired by Russia." Ukraine is not only defending its own territory, but also the EU and European values.
Volodymyr Selensky's video message was a reminder of the conflicts during Maidan, where he described the protests as the first victory in the ongoing war against Russia. The Maidan protests, which led to significant changes and resulted in Ukraine's aim for a future within the EU, were marked by severe conflicts and sacrifices.
Source: www.dpa.com
