Yevhen Khmara congratulated Ukraine's male and female defenders on the holiday

On Defenders of Ukraine Day, Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara expressed his gratitude to everyone who defends the country. He addressed military personnel and all those who defend Ukraine.

He emphasized that there is no higher calling than to defend one’s loved ones, one’s homeland, one’s country, and one’s right to be a free person in an independent state.

Yevhen Khmara expressed his gratitude to all those who are holding the front lines, repelling the Russian invasion, planning operations on land and at sea, gathering intelligence, providing logistics and communications, clearing mines, evacuating the wounded, and saving lives.

“To all those who defend us with technology—from UAVs, C4I, and unmanned aerial vehicles to electronic warfare and AI—who master new types of weapons and find solutions where none existed just yesterday. To those who defend our skies and carry the war into enemy territory. We thank those who are currently at their posts, continuing their heroic deeds, for their endurance and strength. There are no people in the world stronger than our soldiers. There are none more worthy or courageous,” the Minister of Defense emphasized.

Yevhen Khmara added that on this day we also remember the fallen heroes—someone’s sons, daughters, or parents.

“Let us remember that we must be worthy of their memory. We must cherish it every day—in moments of joy and sorrow. Always,” he noted.

The head of the Ministry of Defense also paid tribute to those currently held captive by Russia. Efforts to secure their return continue every day. He expressed special gratitude to veterans—both those who have already served their time and those who are still fighting for our freedom and our values.

“May this day be a day of honor for all who defend Ukraine. And may our gratitude be embodied in our daily contribution to the victory of the indomitable Ukrainian people. We will be strong. We will be proud. We will stand firm. We will prevail. We will prevail. Defenders, honor and glory to you! Glory to Ukraine!” emphasized Yevhen Khmara.

This is reported on the website of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.

Drapatiy congratulated Ukrainian military personnel on Defenders’ Day.

Earlier, Zelenskyy awarded Ukrainian soldiers ahead of Defenders’ Day.

In addition, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented the honorary award “For Courage and Bravery” to four military units.

Prior to this, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had honored service members who participated in Operation “Vivaldi.”