Zelenskyy Presented Awards to Alpha Unit Soldiers

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented state awards to servicemembers of the Security Service of Ukraine’s Special Operations Center “A” (better known as “Alpha”). The ceremony took place to mark the 32nd anniversary of the founding of this legendary unit. 

Three members of the special unit were awarded the highest state honor—the title of Hero of Ukraine. During his address, the Head of State emphasized the key role of “Alpha” fighters in countering Russian aggression, noting their unparalleled leadership in eliminating enemy forces directly on the front lines. 

According to the President, it is this unit that consistently leads in the number of targets destroyed month after month, and most of the SBU’s deep-strike operations are the result of their creative, asymmetric, and effective work. In total, 37 soldiers received state awards, including:

• The title of Hero of Ukraine;

• The Order of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, 1st and 2nd classes;

• the Order “For Courage” of the 1st–3rd degrees;

• The Order of Princess Olga, 2nd Class;

• the “For Impeccable Service” Medal, 3rd class.

Major General Yevhen Khmara, Acting Head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), also joined in the congratulations and presented the special forces operatives with a number of significant agency awards. The head of the security service cited impressive combat statistics, noting that the “Alpha” Special Operations Center is currently responsible for up to 20% of all confirmed Russian military casualties. In addition, the unit is systematically eliminating the enemy’s scarce armored vehicles and logistics capabilities. At the end of the event, the head of the SBU specifically called on everyone never to forget the heroic deeds of the fallen heroes who gave their lives in the battles for independence, and emphasized that providing comprehensive support and care for the families of fallen defenders is the duty of the state and every Ukrainian.