Estonia is celebrating Independence Day, and the speaker of its parliament, Jüri Ratas, said at the traditional flag-raising ceremony that the meaning of this day will not change in Estonia, writes ERR News.
The 24th of February is Estonia’s Independence Day, and since last year this date also marks the beginning of the war in Ukraine. However, Ratas, addressing the people of Estonia, stated that the actions of the aggressor will not change the fact that this date symbolizes freedom for Estonians.
He emphasized that it was an eye-opening moment for everyone: if Ukraine falls, the same fate can await many other European nations. Ratas stated:
«Ukraine is not fighting only for the survival of its independence, nationality, and culture – Ukraine is fighting for the existence of us all. Today our message is as clear as can be – Estonia, and our allies will continue to support Ukraine until it has won the war.»
The Speaker of the Parliament recalled his visits to Ukraine, where he saw with his own eyes the Ukrainians’ zeal to defend their country, and experienced the tenacity, determination, and gratitude of the Ukrainian people for the help provided by Europe and Estonia. Ratas reminded that Estonia is aware of the importance of friends and allies, and added that the founding of the country 105 years ago was possible only thanks to the efforts and support of Estonians and Estonian friends.
Ratas admitted that the 24th of February has also acquired a different meaning for Estonians, but added that he refuses to give the most important day of the year to Estonians in the hands of evil: «The 24th of February shall not be a day of terror and fear. It shall be a day of goodness when despite the acts of destruction and will to conquer, it was the kindness and generosity of people that won. It shall be a day of courage because, on the 24th of February, the overpowering enemy was countered with fearlessness and disregard for personal safety. It shall be a day of unity because it united everyone who valued freedom, humanity, and the right to life and peace.»
The politician pointed out that this is Estonia’s national holiday, and it should remain so. He concluded his speech by saying that Estonia will be steadfast in its position, and the 24th of February has symbolized and will continue to symbolize freedom.
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