Zelensky awards Nausėda Order of Liberty in Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky awarded Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda the Order of Liberty on Monday in Kyiv, where ceremonies were held marking Ukraine's 35th Independence Day.

Nausėda said the honour belonged to all of Lithuania's people, in recognition of their steady and tireless support for Ukraine. He said Ukraine's fight for freedom is a cause shared by everyone, which is why Lithuania has stood, stands, and will keep standing with Ukraine until victory is achieved.

The Lithuanian leader said the independence anniversary holds particular weight this year, as Ukraine continues to resist aggression from the Kremlin. He noted that Ukrainians are not only defending their own state but are also fighting to preserve a rules-based international order in which borders cannot be redrawn through force.

Ongoing support

Nausėda underlined the importance of keeping up continuous military, humanitarian and financial assistance for Ukraine. Later on Monday, he was also due to take part in a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing, to be co-chaired by the leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Germany.