Zelenskyy honored Ukraine's defenders with state awards
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded Ukrainian servicemen with the highest state honors and presented medals and decorations to the families of defenders who died in combat and were posthumously honored.
Zelenskyy announced this on Telegram.
The head of state emphasized that Ukraine is holding on thanks to the courage and dedication of the Armed Forces, who are holding back Russian aggression every day.
“Ukraine is holding on thanks to those who, through their courage, dedication, and strength, ensure that we can exist—be ourselves, be Ukraine. For the fifth year, we have stood against an enemy that is larger than us but has not achieved what it wants… we will certainly stop Russia and guarantee security for our state and people,” Zelenskyy stated.
The President also thanked the military, defenders, and defense industry workers, highlighting their contribution to the country’s defense.
Separately, Zelenskyy presented medals to the families of fallen defenders who were awarded posthumously. Among them are military personnel and law enforcement officers who demonstrated personal courage in battles across various sectors of the front.
In particular, the title of Hero of Ukraine with the Order of the “Golden Star” was posthumously awarded to:
- Master Sergeant Anton Voitenko;
- Police Major Mykola Hetmanov;
- Junior Sergeant Vasyl Kilar;
- Lieutenant Colonel Ruslan Petrenko;
- Senior Private Vitaliy Sydoruk.
The president also presented the families of the fallen soldiers with the “Cross of Military Merit,” a posthumous award given to several defenders, including Serhiy Bulban, Volodymyr Merezhko, and Andriy Starovoyt.
In addition, five servicemen were awarded the “Gold Star” Order, and six more defenders received the “Cross of Military Merit.” Some of the servicemen were awarded the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, 1st Class, and the “For Courage” Order, 1st Class.
Zelensky emphasized that the memory of the fallen heroes must remain bright, as they gave their lives for Ukraine’s independence.
Earlier, Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded Ukrainian border guards with state decorations and honorary titles on the occasion of their professional holiday. The President thanked them for their service on the front lines, at the border, and at sea, highlighting their role in defending the country.
