Zelenskyy, Canadian PM Mark $1B Military Aid, Call for Peace in Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commemorated Ukraine's 34th Independence Day amidst ongoing conflict with Russia, emphasizing the nation's resolve to defend its sovereignty and achieve a just peace without compromising its territorial integrity. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, in his first visit since taking office, pledged over C$1 billion in military aid and signed a drone co-production agreement with Ukraine, underscoring continued Western support. U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg attended the celebrations and received a state honor from Zelenskyy, who called for peace amid diplomatic efforts led by President Donald Trump, including recent talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin that yielded no agreement. Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukrainians would not accept concessions that undermine their freedom and highlighted the importance of lasting security guarantees, a subject of ongoing discussions with allies. The Independence Day events symbolized solidarity from allied nations and a unified stance against Russian aggression, as Ukraine balances military resistance with diplomatic engagement toward peace. Messages of support also came from global leaders including Pope Leo, King Charles, and President Xi Jinping.