This holiday is observed annually on the third Saturday in May. Europe Day symbolizes the beginning of a successful new model of peaceful cooperation between Ukraine and Europe, built on shared values and interests.

But today we celebrate Europe Day under wartime conditions. It is a special day for us because, at this moment in time, the Ukrainian people are heroically defending their freedom, history, democracy, culture, human life, and the dreams of all of progressive Europe against the rushist invasion. Ukraine is a shield for Europe and the whole world.

Indeed, our Homeland is a European country not because it is geographically located in the centre of Europe, but because the Ukrainians have long been committed to the principles of freedom and independence that are the values embraced by many civilized nations.

Europe Day in Ukraine is another excellent opportunity to remind the world and reaffirm the fact that the Ukrainians are a European nation.

Ukraine is not just the centre of Europe, but the very heart of it.