Rome, 24 August (LaPresse) – US President Donald Trump sent Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a message for Ukraine's Independence Day, celebrated on 24 August. In his message, Trump expressed "my congratulations and warmest wishes to you and the brave people of Ukraine. The unyielding spirit of the Ukrainian people and the courage of your country inspire many. As you celebrate this important day, know that the United States respects your struggle, honours your sacrifices and believes in your future as an independent nation. Now,‘ Trump added, ’it is time to end these senseless killings. The United States supports a negotiated agreement that leads to a lasting and durable peace that ends the bloodshed and safeguards Ukraine's sovereignty and dignity." Posting the message on his social media pages, Zelensky commented: ‘Thank you to the President of the United States for his heartfelt congratulations on Ukraine's Independence Day. We appreciate his kind words for the Ukrainian people and thank the United States for standing with Ukraine in defending what is most precious: independence, freedom and guaranteed peace. We believe that by working together, we can end this war and achieve true peace for Ukraine.’