Ukraine's Zelenskiy Signs Anti-Russia Laws to Mark Independence Day

Ukraine's President Zelenskiy has signed laws for ICC membership, banning Moscow-linked religious groups, and granting citizenship to foreign fighters, as Ukraine marks its independence. Russia has denied targeting civilians, and religious groups have been given 9 months to sever ties.

Zelenskiy emphasized the multiple dimensions of independence, including justice. British PM Starmer expressed support, while Indian PM Modi offered to play a role as 'friend' to bring peace.

The Ukrainian Orthodox Church, formerly affiliated with Moscow, has been banned, with allegations of supporting Russia's aggression. The ban affects an estimated three million believers, who are now urged to join the independent Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Moscow has criticized the move as a violation of religious freedom. In addition to the church ban, Ukraine's anniversary of independence has been marked by pledges of support from the UK, with 45,000 Ukrainian recruits trained in Britain, and calls to #MakeNoiseForUkraine on social media.

Ukraine's Supreme Soviet left the Soviet Union in 1991, backed by Ukrainian voters.