Ukraine: Kyiv residents sing in Khreschatyk Street

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Today Ukraine marks its independence from the Soviet Union, although this year it also marks six months since Vladimir Putin began his illegal invasion of the country. Showing their support in style, the Scots Guard Band performed the song with which Ukraine won Eurovision, on behalf of the Armed Forces.

The Ministry of Defence shared the video on Twitter, saying: “Today Ukraine marks 31 years since it gained independence.

“To honour the anniversary and as a tribute to the Ukrainian people, the Scots Guard Band performed the winning Eurovision entry, ‘Stefania’, on Horse Guards Parade.”

The performance took place in the Horse Guards Parade earlier this week.

One Ukrainian responded: “Absolutely unreal! Truly grateful for your undying support in our struggle for freedom. You have just lit the hearts of Ukrainians on fire of love and appreciation.”

Another commenter said: “Fabulous, it will fill Ukrainian hearts with support, let’s not forget to keep filling Ukrainian warriors with ammo”.

Stefania was originally performed by Ukrainian folk-rap group Kalush Orchestra in 2022’s Eurovision song contest in May. The song won with 631 points and a record televoting score of 439 points.

This was Ukraine’s third win in the Eurovision Song Contest; having last won in 2016 – but was the first Ukrainian-language song to win the competition. The group also performed the song at the Glastonbury Festival 2022, marking their first gig in the UK.

Meanwhile 10 Downing Street has been adorned with a floral wreath in tribute to Ukraine, made up of the country’s signature flower, the sunflower, creating their flag’s colours. A Ukrainian rally is planned to be held at Downing Street today at 5pm.

The country’s president Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a rousing speech this morning, defying Russia’s invasion.

Mr Zelensky said: “Six months ago, Russia declared war against us. On February 24, the entire Ukraine heard explosions and gunshots.

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“And on August 24, it wasn’t supposed to hear the words ‘happy Independence Day’. On February 24, we were told: you have no chance. On August 24, we say: Happy Independence Day, Ukraine!”

He added that over the course of the war, the Ukrainian people “gave humanity a new hope that justice has not completely left our cynical world. And it is still not force that wins in it, but truth. Not money, but values. Not oil, but people.”

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