06 December 2025

Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Today, Ukraine marks the 34th anniversary of the establishment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Following Russia’s armed aggression in 2014, thousands of Ukrainians joined the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Their path is a living history of determined resistance, marked by decisive battles — from the defense of Donetsk Airport and the tragic Ilovaisk encirclement to the liberation of Kyiv and Kharkiv regions and many other areas where the Ukrainian spirit proved stronger than the enemy.

Despite these challenges, the Ukrainian people’s unbreakable spirit of freedom and their aspiration to build an independent state have remained unchanged. An equally important role in the struggle for Ukraine is played by the Crimean Tatars, who also joined the Defense Forces from the first days of the occupation. One of them is serviceman Ilimdar Khojametov. He joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine in 2022 and took part in the liberation of the Kyiv region, as well as in operations in the Donetsk region and southern Ukraine.

The Representation expresses its gratitude to all defenders who stand guard over the country every day and honors the memory of those who gave their lives for the freedom and independence of Ukraine.