President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to the territorial defense fighters of Ukraine for their contributions to the country's protection and awarded them state honors. He announced this on Telegram.
“Today, we honor all soldiers, sergeants, and officers of the territorial defense who have shown bravery in defending our nation,” he stated.
Zelensky emphasized that the concept of territorial defense is about genuinely defending the country from external aggression, and it has proven effective during the large-scale Russian invasion.
“On this important day for territorial defense, I am pleased to award our heroes and express my gratitude for their service. Thank you for your efforts in defending Ukraine,” the president stressed.
As noted on the president's website, over 100,000 Ukrainians joined the Territorial Defense Forces since the war's onset, demonstrating the nation's unity.
“Currently, 25 brigades of territorial defense are working closely with other defense forces. They are actively engaged in frontline battles and securing critical directions,” he added.
Zelensky reported that 46 territorial defense soldiers have received the title of Hero of Ukraine, and thousands more have been awarded various state honors.
The president also highlighted the importance of remembering fallen heroes, who were honored with a moment of silence.
The head of state awarded the “Cross of Military Merit” to Sergeant Yevhen Tsursky, recognizing his heroism in battles in Kirovohrad and Mykolaiv regions, as well as his participation in the liberation of Kherson region.
Tsursky is currently carrying out assignments in Zaporizhzhia region, where one of the largest attacks by Russian forces recently took place. Thanks to his actions, the advance was halted, and the enemy suffered significant losses.
Despite being injured, he displayed courage by carrying a wounded comrade for two kilometers to a medical evacuation point.
The president also awarded defenders with the orders of Bohdan Khmelnytskyi and “For Courage.”
