New Fatalities Reported from Russian Strikes, Zelenskyy Says on Day of Mourning.

Honoring War Victims on a Day of Remembrance

According to Novyny.live: On June 22, 2023, Ukraine observed its Day of Mourning and Remembrance for war victims. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the nation, revealing that the country had suffered fresh casualties from Russian attacks. According to details shared during his speech, two people were killed in Zaporizhzhia, and additional victims were reported in the Sumy region. Furthermore, Russian shelling caused losses in areas including Odesa, Kherson, Donetsk, and Kharkiv. This day of remembrance is particularly poignant as Ukraine continues to endure an ongoing war with Russia, now in its fifth year.

President's Address

Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia began this day not by honoring those who fell in World War II, but with new, unjustifiable killings.

“Today, Russia started this day not by commemorating the fallen of World War II or by sending signals that could bring an end to this current war—the war of Russia against Ukraine—but with new, utterly unjustifiable murders.” — Volodymyr Zelenskyy

The president also stressed the absolute illegitimacy of the war launched by Russia. “This Russian war has no just cause: Putin is driven by the same motives as past aggressors. He holds life in the same contempt,” Zelenskyy stated. He called for an end to the conflict, which has been claiming lives for five years. “We must end this war, which has been taking lives for five years now,” the president said.

Ukraine's losses in World War II ranged from 8 to 10 million people, underscoring the importance of remembering war victims, especially amid the current conflict. Zelenskyy's address served as a reminder of war's tragic consequences and the need to honor the sacrifices made throughout the country's history.

The situation in Ukraine remains tense as the conflict with Russia continues into its fifth year. Observing this day of remembrance is not only an act of memory but also a call to the international community to support Ukraine in its fight for territorial integrity and peace. President Zelenskyy's stance highlights the importance of recalling war's consequences and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to prevent further civilian casualties.