Ukraine has the right to independently choose its own path, said European Commissioner for Defense and Space, Andrius Kubilius, during a ceremony in Brussels marking Ukraine’s National Flag Day, the European Commission’s press service reported. The ceremony included the raising of the Ukrainian flag in front of the European Parliament.
Kubilius reminded that today marks the 86th anniversary of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact — an agreement between dictators Stalin and Hitler on the division of Europe.
“This pact led to the start of World War II and 50 years of subjugation for the Baltic states and later Central Europe,” Kubilius noted.
He called on Europe to “learn the lessons of history: no division of Europe into spheres of influence. Every country has the right to choose its destiny — to become a member of NATO or the EU. That includes Ukraine. And no one has the right to veto that choice, not even Putin.”
Kubilius also emphasized the symbolic significance of the Ukrainian flag, which evokes strong emotions worldwide.
“The Ukrainian flag is a symbol of Maidan and the fight for independence. Ukrainians are dying with this flag in their hands, defending their country. That’s why your flag has such a profound meaning. That’s why this day is also very special — not just for Ukrainians,” he said.
He added that European democracy and freedom are impossible without Ukraine’s independence.
“Your flag is also our flag. It’s the flag of our hearts and our dream of living in a united, free, and peaceful Europe. Your flag is a flag of peace — a just peace that will be achieved,” Kubilius stressed.
