Ukraine starts hosting Iftar at official level - Zelensky

The leader stated this during the first such Iftar with the participation of Muslim military servicemen, diplomats, and the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"Today we are starting a tradition in Ukraine - Iftar at the official level together with our heroes – our Muslim warriors, together with the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people, together with representatives of the entire Muslim community of Ukraine. And through this, we affirm that Ukraine values every person, every community," the head of state said.

The president underlined the idea that diversity anchored by respect is part of the character of independent Ukraine.

"And let this character of ours always strengthen and lead us to good deeds," Zelensky remarked.

The president assured that Ukraine is grateful to the Muslims in our country and the entire Muslim community across the world, who, like Ukrainians, seek peace and protection from evil.

"Ukraine will always remember those who fight for freedom and security throughout our territory. We are all united by faith, and we are certainly not given to know the whole path that lies ahead, but we are all sure of one thing: we can’t be broken, separated, or erased, and neither can our main thing be erased – our values. That’s because we walk in dignity, for the sake of unity and for the sake of freedom. We trust the One who gave us this main thing, who gave us life, and we believe that the day will come when He will also give us Victory," the president said.

Iftar is the tradition of breaking the fast, an evening meal during the month of Ramadan. It is held after the evening prayer local time.

At the end of the 20th century, Muslims began to organize Iftar in different countries, inviting guests who are not only Muslims. They use the tradition to strengthen ties between representatives of different ethnic groups living in the country, to help them learn about the life of Muslims.