Zelensky Vows Retaliation Against Russia

On Ukraine's Independence Day, President Volodymyr Zelensky vowed to hold Russia accountable for its invasion, emphasizing that retribution would be 'symmetrical and far-reaching.' He signed a law banning the Moscow-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church, declaring it a measure to protect Ukrainian Orthodoxy. Zelensky's remarks came as Ukrainian forces launched a significant offensive into the Russian region of Kursk, claiming multiple victories while also facing continued Russian advances in eastern Ukraine. He criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin as a 'sick man' who threatens nuclear war, and stated that the war is 'back' in Russia. The U.S. has also pledged a new military aid package worth $125 million to support Ukraine's defense efforts. As Ukraine marks its 33rd Independence Day, Zelensky expressed optimism, stating, 'Whatever the enemy was bringing to our land has now returned home.'