Volodymyr Zelensky in Vilnius during an event within the framework of the “I raise the flag for Ukraine in NATO” campaign: Ukrainian flags on Lithuanian streets unequivocally prove - we are already allies
In the Republic of Lithuania, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Elena Zelenska took part in the event organized as part of the campaign “I raise the flag for Ukraine in NATO”.
The heads of state of Ukraine and Lithuania received from the hands of the volunteer, co-founder of the Blue and Yellow volunteer movement Jonas Okhman, the flag of Ukraine, transferred by the Ukrainian military from the city of Bakhmut in the Donetsk region, where fierce fighting with the Russian invaders continues. Also, this tie was carried through the streets of Vilnius by marathon runners.
The President of Lithuania noted in his speech that during his recent visit to Kiev he shared with Volodymyr Zelensky the idea of raising the flag from the battlefield on Vilnius Square, which will be delivered by runners, and expressed joy that it was possible to organize it.
“I am happy that we are moving forward. And I think Ukraine will really be a member of NATO. We have no right to act otherwise, because now the price paid by Ukraine is the highest. This is the price of blood. At the cost of their blood, their lives, Ukrainians give us time so that we can prepare ourselves and give a worthy rebuff to Russia. Russia will not win,” said Gitanas Nauseda.
Volodymyr Zelensky, for his part, stressed that here in Vilnius, the progress of Europe is very clearly visible, where people know what security is and how to achieve it.
“I am grateful to you, Vilnius, and to all Lithuanian cities and communities for every call in support of Ukraine, for shelter for our people who have escaped the fighting here in Lithuania. Thank you for your help in our defense, for your clear, honest and — importantly — bold stance on inviting Ukraine to NATO. Ukrainian flags on Lithuanian streets unequivocally prove: we are already allies, and Ukraine will defend its freedom and yours! And never, never, anyone can look back at Moscow,” the Head of State emphasized.
The Head of State noted that the Ukrainian battle flag, which will be raised today in Vilnius, was brought from the city of Bakhmut, where one of the most decisive battles for freedom in Europe is taking place, and this is how our children and grandchildren will remember it.
“This battle flag of ours from Bakhmut means that Lithuanians will never again have to fight against Russian soldiers, either under the Vilnius TV Tower or anywhere else in your capital, your country! Lithuania will always be yours only! This flag means that there will never again be deportations from the Baltic countries to Siberia. Never again will Poland be divided and humiliated by the invaders of Hungary. Never again will there be tanks in Prague and “winter wars” against Finland's freedom... There will be no more occupations in Europe!” Volodymyr Zelensky stressed.
According to the President, the Ukrainian flag, although pierced with bullets, is alive, proud and free, and this means that every flag of the countries of Europe will be alive, proud and free. He noted that he believes in the decision of Ukraine's partners, which will make NATO strong and decisive.
“I would like this faith to become the certainty — the certainty of the decisions we deserve — all of us deserve — and that every one of our warriors, every citizen of ours, every mother of ours, every child of ours expects. Is that a great desire? NATO will give Ukraine security. Ukraine will make the Alliance stronger,” Volodymyr Zelensky said.
After the completion of the performances, the National Anthem of Ukraine was heard. Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas solemnly raised the flag of Ukraine on Lukishkes Square.
National Guard of Ukraine
