On 20 August, Estonia marks the Day of Restoration of Independence — a date that carries deep meaning not only for Estonia, but also for everyone who understands the value of freedom, dignity, and the right to determine one’s own future.

This day reminds us that independence is never something automatic. It is something that must be protected, remembered, and, when needed, reclaimed.

Estonia’s history speaks of occupation, loss, resilience, and the long path back to freedom. It is a history shaped by dignity, endurance, and the strength of people who preserved their language, memory, culture, and hope even in the most difficult times.

For many Ukrainians living in Estonia today, this day feels especially meaningful. Ukraine also knows what it means when freedom becomes a target. We know how much it matters for a country to choose its own path, protect its people, speak its own language, and build its future without fear.

Independence means more than borders.

It means the right to live safely.
The right to speak your language.
The right to preserve memory.
The right to make choices.
The right to be yourself.

Today, we want to say thank you to Estonia — for the strength of its example, for the memory it has preserved, and for the support and safety it has offered to many people who were forced to leave their homes because of the war.

On this day, we share a letter to Estonia in three languages: Estonian, Ukrainian, and English.

It is a letter about freedom, resilience, memory, and gratitude.

Happy Day of Restoration of Independence, Estonia.