Yellow and blue colors were used in the symbolism of the Kingdom of Galicia-Volhynia and in the Cossack army, and the blue and yellow flag became the national symbol during the Ukrainian Revolution of 1917-1921. Back in 1917, the blue and yellow flag was approved by the national Central Rada. And at the same time, on April 29, 1918, the Ukrainian flag also flew over Crimea. At that time, Ukrainian blue and yellow flags were raised on all ships of the Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol. The former Russian Black Sea Fleet took the oath of allegiance to Kyiv and the Ukrainian People’s Republic, as a state restored after several centuries of absence. Russian propaganda has always wanted to ignore this important historical fact.

For decades, our flag has witnessed complex and heroic pages of history. It was raised in the struggle for independence, defended against bans and persecution, and preserved during the darkest times of enslavement. Today, it has become a symbol of the courage and bravery of millions of Ukrainians who are resisting the aggression of the Russian Federation.

This day has special significance for Crimea. It was the Ukrainian national flag, together with the Crimean Tatar national flag, that flew over the protest on February 26, 2014. And now, despite the temporary occupation, the blue and yellow flag continues to live in the hearts of our citizens in Crimea. It has become a symbol of resistance and faith in freedom. Activists raise the Ukrainian flag on mountains such as Baidarska Yaila, Pakhal-Kaya, Angara-Burun, Ilyas-Kaya, and in many other cities of the peninsula to demonstrate the unity and resilience of Ukrainians. The Ukrainian flag is a trigger for the occupiers. The national symbol has been turned into a basis for persecution, accusing Crimean residents of “displaying prohibited symbols” and “discrediting the Russian army.” But despite everything, our brave citizens in Crimea continue to raise it despite the threat of deprivation of liberty, persecution, and imprisonment. Their actions are proof that Ukrainian Crimea exists and is fighting for its return.

Our flag is also a symbol of international solidarity. Today, it flies not only in Ukraine, but also in many countries around the world. It is a sign of support for Ukraine in its struggle to restore its territorial integrity, including Crimea, and to uphold the principles of international law.

We are confident that the blue and yellow flag will fly again over the territory of free Crimea. It will become a symbol of the victory of freedom over oppression, the restoration of justice, and the return of peace and dignity to the peninsula. Ukraine’s National Flag Day is a reminder of the strength of unity and the resilience of our people. It unites the past, present, and future, affirming our belief that under this flag we will build a strong Ukraine, free from occupiers.