President Joe Biden and President Volodymyr Zelenskiy of Ukraine visited the historic Kyiv Cathedral on Monday to pay tribute to the fallen Ukrainian soldiers. The visit comes amid rising tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, and the recent build-up of Russian troops near the border.
The two leaders arrived at St Michael’s Golden-Domed Cathedral in the heart of Kyiv and were greeted by senior officials and religious leaders. They then laid flowers at the memorial dedicated to the Ukrainian soldiers who lost their lives fighting in the conflict.
President Biden addressed the crowd, praising the bravery and sacrifice of the Ukrainian soldiers who fought for their country. “Your soldiers gave their lives for the cause of freedom and democracy. We stand with you in your fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity,” he said.
President Zelenskiy echoed the sentiments of President Biden and expressed his gratitude for the support of the United States in the ongoing conflict. “We are deeply grateful for the support of our friends and allies, and we will continue to defend our independence and sovereignty,” he said.
The Kyiv Cathedral is a symbol of Ukraine’s rich cultural heritage and history, and the visit by the two leaders underscores the importance of preserving Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The ceremony was also attended by the families of the fallen soldiers, who expressed their appreciation for the recognition of their loved ones’ sacrifice.
The visit to the Kyiv Cathedral marks the end of President Biden’s two-day trip to Ukraine, during which he met with President Zelenskiy and other senior officials to discuss a range of issues, including the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
The official handle of the President of the United States (POTUS), had tweeted about the visit on Monday. Sharing photos of the visit on Twitter, the caption reads; President Zelenskyy and all Ukrainians remind the world every day what courage is.
They remind us that freedom is priceless.
And worth fighting for.
For as long as it takes.”
President Zelenskyy and all Ukrainians remind the world every day what courage is.
They remind us that freedom is priceless.
And worth fighting for.
For as long as it takes. pic.twitter.com/GlBT0Sg9ZL
— President Biden (@POTUS) February 20, 2023
The visit has been widely hailed as a symbol of support for Ukraine by the United States and a reaffirmation of the two countries’ commitment to working together to promote peace and stability in the region. The ceremony at the Kyiv Cathedral is a reminder of the sacrifices made by Ukrainian soldiers in defense of their country, and the importance of honoring their memory.
