Ukraine marks 35 years of independence

Ukraine is marking the 35th anniversary of the declaration of its independence, adopted by parliament on 24 August 1991.

The Verkhovna Rada adopted the Act of Declaration of Independence, proclaiming Ukraine an independent democratic state.

The decision was confirmed by a nationwide referendum on 1 December 1991, when more than 90% of voters backed Ukraine's independence.

Canada and Poland recognised Ukraine's independence the following day, followed by other countries around the world.