Giant Ukrainian flag unfurled in Washington to mark Ukraine’s Independence Day.

The celebration also included a march, as well as Ukrainian music, poetry and dance, according to the Ukrainian Embassy in the United States and US Ukrainian Activists (USUA).

The annual event has been held in the U.S. capital since 2022, when the tradition was launched by USUA President Nadiya Shaporynska.

Members of the Ukrainian diaspora and Ukrainian American community, supporters of Ukraine and representatives of the diplomatic community gathered near the Lincoln Memorial. In previous years, the official part of the celebration was held near the White House, but that area is currently fenced off.

“Ukraine’s independence is defended every day - on the battlefield, in our communities, and through the unwavering support of friends and partners around the world,” Ukraine’s Chargé d’Affaires in the United States Denys Sienik said.

Sienik spoke about continued Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities, critical infrastructure and civilian vessels in the Black Sea, and called for urgent support for Ukraine’s air defenses.

Among those addressing the gathering was Ukrainian veteran Andrii Smolenskyi, who served with the 47th Mechanized Brigade and was severely wounded during a combat mission near Robotyne in southern Ukraine in May 2023.

The Washington celebration was held ahead of Ukraine’s 35th Independence Day on August 24.