We will hold. We will turn the tide. We will prevail. Yevhenii Khmara marks Ukraine’s Defenders Day

Yevhenii Khmara: No one in the world is stronger than our warriors. No one is more honourable or courageous.

Dear defenders of our people,

There is no higher calling than defending your loved ones, your land and your country, and your right to live freely in an independent state.

Today we thank everyone who defends Ukraine. We thank those who hold the front line, repel Russia’s assault, plan operations on land and water, gather intelligence, keep logistics and communications running, clear mines, evacuate the wounded and save lives.

We thank everyone who uses technology to defend us, from aerial drones, uncrewed surface vessels and ground robotic systems to electronic warfare and artificial intelligence. We thank those who master new weapons and find solutions where none existed yesterday, those who protect our skies and those who take the war to enemy territory. We are grateful for the endurance and strength of those who remain at their positions and carry on their courageous work.

No one in the world is stronger than our warriors. No one is more honourable or courageous.

Today we also remember the fallen, whose lives meant so much to their families: sons, daughters and parents. We must live up to their memory and keep it alive every day, in joy and in sorrow, always.

We remember those held in Russian captivity. We work every day to bring our people home.

We extend our special thanks to veterans, both those who have completed their service and those who continue to fight for our freedom and our values.

May this day honour everyone who defends Ukraine. May our gratitude find expression in what we do every day to help the unbreakable Ukrainian people prevail.

We will be strong.
We will be proud.
We will hold. We will turn the tide. We will prevail.

Honour and glory to you, defenders of Ukraine!
Glory to Ukraine!

English translation of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine original · CC BY 4.0.