Slava Ukrani: Ukrainian soldiers mark their national Independence Day in the UK
Hundreds of Ukrainian recruits joined forces with soldiers from the British Army and partner nation forces to mark Ukrainian Independence Day at a UK training camp.
The UK government has been encouraging people to mark Ukraine's national day by not being silent in the face of Russia's aggression and "Make Noise for Ukraine" events have been held across the UK.
Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin has described the Armed Forces of Ukraine as an "inspiration to people around the world".
Amongst the events, was a demonstration of the UK Defence's support of Ukraine hosted by the British Army's Queen's Dragoon Guards at a training camp for Ukrainian recruits in the north of England.
A morning field service and parade began with a reflective minute's silence as all those who gathered considered what Ukraine is fighting for and remembered those who have died for the cause of Ukraine's sovereignty.
Following the silence, a rousing speech was delivered by a Ukrainian Commanding Officer, before the Ukrainian national anthem was sung by the assembled troops, and then came the moment of noise.
A ferocious cry of 'Slava Ukraini' [Glory to Ukraine] was returned with force by the nearly 1,000-strong crowd as they roared Heroiam slava! [Glory to the heroes].
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sent the Ukrainian recruits training in the UK a video message to mark their national day.
It left many in the audience visibly emotional.
Sir Keir Starmer has told Ukrainians that the UK will back them "today and always", as Kyiv marks 33 years since it declared independence from the Soviet Union.
The Prime Minister described his message to frontline fighters and people who have sought refuge in the UK as "crystal clear", and the Government confirmed community groups, councils and parishes have planned events to mark the anniversary.
"My message to all Ukrainians, whether on the front line or here in your second home in the UK, is crystal clear: we are with you today and always," Sir Keir Starmer said.
He added: "That is what I told President Zelensky when he sat at our Cabinet table and where, on behalf of the British people, I outlined that it is not just the British government behind Ukraine – it's all of us.
"We are with you for as long as it takes.
"Slava Ukraini," he said, a national salute in the country, which translates to glory to Ukraine.
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