On August 24, 1991, this Wednesday exactly 31 years ago, Ukraine became independent from Russia. Normally that is a big party and is celebrated with a parade. But nothing is normal these days. A significant expansion of the Russian shelling is even taken into account.

Independence Day celebrations will be a lot more austere this year. There are no big parades. Ukraine has put captured Russian tanks on the route where the parade normally passes.

There is, of course, no reason to celebrate. The country has been at war since February 24, exactly six months ago. It is expected that the Russian army will use this day for another violent series of rocket attacks. Both American and Ukrainian intelligence agencies have warned about this.

Government buildings and places where many citizens congregate could be targets. One more reason not to organize mass gatherings. President Zelensky said this weekend he would be aware that Russia is doing "something very ugly, something very evil" on Independence Day.

Kiev residents have heeded the warnings to stay away from government buildings. An adviser to the president told BBC radio that many residents are trying to flee the city. Public activities are prohibited throughout the week as a precaution. In Kharkiv, which are still regularly shelled, the curfew has been extended from 7 am on Tuesday evening to 7 am on Thursday morning. "We ask for your understanding for this measure," the local authorities said.