A commemoration in honor of the Ukrainian military victims of this year's war against Russia kicks off today in Kiev. President Volodymyr Zelensky led a minute's silence in Sofia square ''in memory of the fallen''. The seconds were marked by the sound of drums. The leaders of the armed forces and the men and women who fight every day on the front line were present, shouting the slogan "glory to Ukraine".

"Every day depends on you Ukrainian soldier. You are the most important person, thanks to whom millions of Ukrainians are alive. You are the reason why victory will sound. I thank everyone who stood February last year, who are giving all "Ukraine indestructibility. Your effort brings our victory closer, it is thanks to you that Ukraine will exist", the president said in his memorial speech.

"After a year of decisive war for Ukrainian independence -added Zelensky-   Today I want to tell all of you, all those who fight for Ukraine and those who live with our country in their hearts, that I am proud of you. We are all proud of you. May this pride go through the streets and trenches, spread through squares and cities, spread among hearts and foreign countries, speak to everyone. Ukraine is alive".

During the day, the Ukrainian president said he was open to talks with China, a key ally of Russia which has tried to convince Moscow to initiate peace talks. A solution that for Zelensky is synonymous with territorial sovereignty: "We know that 2023 will be the year of our victory. Ukraine has inspired and united the world", he declared in a video. Meanwhile, in a meeting with the General Staff he admitted that in the east "the situation is very difficult, heartbreaking" for both the military and the inhabitants.