Ukrainian children play on burnt Russian vehicles displayed in Kyiv | August 22, 2022 | ACM
  • 2 years ago
KYIV, UKRAINE - AUGUST 21: Ahead of the country's 31st anniversary of Independence Day, Ukraine has displayed the destroyed military equipment and weapons including tank and motorized artillery systems belonging to the Russian army.

Footage on Sunday, Aug. 21, shows the residents of Kyiv at Khreschatyk Street who came to see the displayed military vehicles and weapons seized by the Ukrainian army.

The country will be celebrating the 31st anniversary of its independence this week, which also marks six months since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine.

"We are actively preparing for the new week, which is very important for all of us, for our country. Our Flag Day, our Independence Day is ahead. The commemoration of veterans of the war for the freedom of Ukraine is ahead," said Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

At least 5,514 civilians have been killed and 7,698 injured since the Ukrainian war began on Feb. 24, according to UN estimates.

The true toll is believed to be much higher. Nearly 11.15 million people have fled to other countries, while more than 7.1 million have been internally displaced, according to the UN refugee agency.

(Footage by Metin Aktas /Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
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