On October 1, Ukraine celebrates Defender’s Day, which coincides with Cossack Day and the religious holiday of the Protection of the Holy Virgin. This state holiday was established in 2014 and was celebrated on October 14, but starting in 2023, it is celebrated on October 1 in accordance with changes in the church calendar.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Official Events and the President’s Address
Today, President Volodymyr Zelensky participated in the ceremony of the cadet oath and the solemn presentation of state awards in honor of Defender’s Day in Ukraine. During the event, the president honored the memory of all those who gave their lives for the freedom and independence of the state, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience of the Ukrainian people in the face of challenges.
Words of Support from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
On the occasion of the holiday, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, addressed the Ukrainian people. In his address, he noted that today, thanks to the courage and dedication of defenders, Ukrainians can live their everyday lives, raise children, and work in a free country.
“It is precisely because of the defenders of Ukraine that our fellow citizens can live their usual lives: enjoy their morning coffee, take their children to school, work and create, feeling that their hearts beat together with Ukraine. A country that fights.”
General Syrskyi also emphasized that despite the long-standing imposition of the image of a victim, modern Ukrainian warriors have proven their ability to defend the independence of the state and inspire future generations to heroic deeds. He highlighted that Ukrainian defenders have halted Russian aggression, dispelled the myth of the ‘invincible army’ of the Russian Federation, and awakened the national spirit of struggle.
Addressing the defenders, the general added that they are shaping the future of the country every day, preserving faith in a strong and independent Ukraine that will serve as a model for future generations, and continue to make history on their native land.