Day of Mourning and Commemoration of the Victims of the War in Ukraine
June 22 is one of the most tragic dates in the historical memory of the Ukrainian people. On this day, we honor millions of people whose lives were cut short by war, we remember those who went through the trials of occupation, the front, forced deportations, concentration camps and irreparable losses. The Day of Mourning and Commemoration of War Victims in Ukraine was established by the Decree of the President of Ukraine of November 17, 2000 No. 1245/2000 as a reminder of one of the most terrible pages of our history.
For Ukrainians, this date has long ceased to be just a reminder of the events of the past. It has become a symbol of the centuries-old struggle of our people for the right to live on their own land, to preserve their culture, language and statehood. Over the centuries, Ukrainians have repeatedly become victims of wars of aggression, but each time they found the strength to resist and defend their freedom.
Today, history sounds especially painful. Ukraine is once again experiencing a brutal war, again losing its defenders and peaceful citizens every day, and again forced to defend its right to an independent future. In 1941, Ukrainians defended their native land from the Nazi invasion. Today, their descendants, armed with weapons, are resisting Russian aggression, defending independence, democracy, and the right to independently determine their own future.
Honoring the victims of war reminds us of the extraordinary value of peace, of our responsibility to those who gave their lives for the freedom of the Motherland, and of our duty to preserve historical truth. We remember all who died on the battlefields, in concentration camps, during occupation and repression. We bow our heads to the soldiers who defend Ukraine today, and to the peaceful citizens whose lives were taken by modern war.
The memory of the dead lives in our hearts, strengthens our unity, and gives us strength in the struggle for a free, independent, and peaceful Ukraine. We have no right to forget those who gave their lives for the sake of future generations.
Eternal memory to all victims of war. Honor and glory to the Ukrainian heroes who fought and continue to fight for the freedom and independence of Ukraine.
