Tag: President of Ukraine

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 23 August 2022.

On National Flag Day, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in the solemn ceremony of raising the blue-yellow flag.

In the presence of the Head of State, the country’s largest flag, located on the territory of the National Museum of the History of Ukraine in World War II, was raised in Kyiv. The solemn raising was accompanied by a military orchestra. The National Anthem was played. The honor guard company marched.

During the speech, the President noted that every year, shortly before Independence Day, the Ukrainian people pay tribute to one of their most important symbols and one of the greatest shrines – the National Flag of Ukraine.

“The combination of two colors that we incredibly love, cherish and will never exchange for any other. We will never recognize foreign colors on our land and in our sky. And we are always ready to defend our blue-yellow flag,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The Head of State announced a moment of silence to commemorate the heroes who gave their lives for these colors.

The President noted that our flag has gone through a lot and was present at many places. In particular, it was brought to the parliament on the day of the declaration of independence of Ukraine, it was in space together with Leonid Kadeniuk, at the North Pole with our polar explorers, it conquered Everest. The blue-yellow flag was also a star on the stages in Istanbul, Stockholm and Turin, when the Ukrainians who won the Eurovision wrapped themselves in it, it triumphantly rose above the flags of other countries at the Olympic Games in Atlanta, Sydney, Beijing, London and many others cities of the world.

“It also attended the 1976 Olympics in Montreal, when during the semi-final match between the USSR and GDR national football teams, Danylo Myhal, a representative of the Ukrainian diaspora in Canada, ran onto the field. Dressed in vyshyvanka and carrying a blue-yellow flag, he danced the hopak. He always dreamed of transferring this flag to Ukraine. Today it finally happened. And this legendary flag will be raised today at the opening of the Ukrainian football championship,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The President also emphasized that the blue and yellow colors were on the armor and near the hearts of Ukrainian warriors when they liberated Kramatorsk, Sloviansk, Mariupol and dozens of other cities in 2014, as well as the Kyiv region, Chernihiv region, Sumy region and our other occupied lands in 2022.

“It witnessed the birth of a world masterpiece and heard firsthand where the “Russian warship” should go. Now everyone is in their place: our flag has returned to Zmiinyi Island, and the “Moskva” cruiser has followed the given course,” said the Head of State.

The President expressed belief that the blue-yellow flag will fly again where it should be by right.

“In all temporarily occupied cities and villages of Ukraine. Occupied – temporarily. Fly – forever. In Melitopol, above Peremohy Square. Where there can be no flag of those who lose the war. There will be blue and yellow. In Kherson, above Svobody Square. There can be no flag of those who do not know what freedom is. There will be blue and yellow,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The President emphasized that the Ukrainian flag will again be on Azovsky Avenue in Berdyansk, on Zelena Alley in Skadovsk, over the NPP in Enerhodar and over the Kakhovska HPP, on the Adzhyholsky lighthouse and on Savur-Mohyla, on the shores of Siverskyi Donets, Kalmius, near the Oleshky sands.

“There cannot be a flag of those who hear these names for the first time. There will be blue and yellow. And in Crimea. In Yalta, in Kerch, Dzhankoy, Simferopol, on Ai-Petri. Ukrainian and Crimean Tatar flags. And no matter how someone tries to twist history, exactly these colors are historically associated with Crimea,” the Head of State emphasized.

The blue-yellow flag will also be in Lutuhyne, over the Taras Shevchenko House of Culture, in Lysychansk, over the Volodymyr Sosiura Palace of Culture, because there cannot be another flag next to these names, Volodymyr Zelenskyy is convinced.

“Our flag will fly again in Milove, near the Bell of Memory and the memorial to the victors of Nazism. And it will be in Severodonetsk, next to the monument to the Cossacks. There should not be a flag of those who have nothing to do with either the first or the second. There will be blue and yellow. Our Ukrainian flag. Our amulet. Amulet of Ukraine. From land to the skies! Happy National Flag Day,” the President summed up.

According to the Constitution, the national symbols of Ukraine are the National Flag, the National Coat of Arms, and the National Anthem of Ukraine. The National Flag is a flag made of two equal-sized horizontal stripes of blue and yellow colors.

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 22 August 2022.

Regular holding of the “Kyiv Initiative” will contribute to effective coordination of efforts of neighboring partner countries to help Ukraine protect freedom, independence and security in Europe. This was said by Head of the President’s Office Andriy Yermak during a conversation with media representatives following the “Kyiv Initiative” event.

“Today’s meeting is dedicated to the format that we called the “Kyiv Initiative”. The goal we set and achieved is the coordination of our efforts. We talked about many things today. First of all, it is security. We informed our colleagues about the situation at the front, about what is necessary for our success to be even greater. We talked about the continuation of sanctions pressure. We talked about future security guarantees for Ukraine,” said Andriy Yermak.

The Head of the President’s Office highly evaluated the results of the first meeting. According to him, an agreement was reached to hold meetings of the initiative every month, in particular in the format of a video conference. He expressed belief that the circle of participants of this format will expand – other partners of Ukraine will join it.

“I think it is critically important today for all our partners to be in the same information field, to get all the latest news directly from us, so that we can coordinate our efforts. As I said, our victory will be a joint victory with our partners, with our neighbors, we are sure of that,” Andriy Yermak said.

According to him, during today’s meeting, among other things, the issue of providing security guarantees to Ukraine was discussed.

“I am glad that our partners are very interested in familiarization, and some are also willing to be guarantors of our security,” said the Head of the President’s Office.

As Andriy Yermak reported, the first recommendations from the Group on International Security Guarantees for Ukraine, which he chairs together with former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, should appear shortly.

“We are currently working on this document. I informed our colleagues about it today, they are also waiting with interest for this very powerful document,” he added.

Secretary of State, Head of the International Policy Bureau at the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland Jakub Kumoch said: “Your victory will be our victory. We always feel like a small part of your great victory during our visits to Kyiv. Today, Ukrainian women and men protect Europe from totalitarianism and tyranny. Thank you very much for that. And our states will help the Ukrainian people until victory.”

Chief Foreign Policy Adviser to the President of the Republic of Lithuania Asta Skaisgirytė emphasized that her state strongly supports the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

“We sincerely believe in your victory,” she said.

Director of the Diplomatic Directorate of the Office of the President of Hungary Krzysztof Altus, for his part, noted that humanitarian aspects are also extremely important.

“Our hearts are always open to our Ukrainian friends. We will support all refugees who come to our country, but we will also do our best to help those who want to return to Ukraine,” he assured.

Advisor to the Romanian President on European Affairs (and Foreign Policy Affairs) Luminiţa -Teodora Odobescu thanked for the invitation to join this initiative and expressed complete solidarity with Ukraine.

Foreign Affairs Adviser to the President of Latvia Solveiga Silkalna emphasized that her country will stand with Ukraine until all the lands of our state are liberated from the occupiers.

Foreign Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Estonia Liis Lipre-Järma reaffirmed that the Estonian government supports the people of Ukraine in their struggle for freedom.

“Estonia supports you in every way on the path to Europe. And, of course, military aid is the number one priority,” Liis Lipre-Järma said.

Adviser to the President of Estonia Celia Kuningas-Saagpakk assured that her country will help Ukraine until victory.

Foreign Policy Advisor to the President of the Slovak Republic Jana Kobzová noted the importance of discussing the security situation in such a circle.

“You are defending not only your territories and your people, but also freedom in Europe. We are hopeful to continue our cooperation,” she said.

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 22 August 2022.

Regular holding of the “Kyiv Initiative” will contribute to effective coordination of efforts of neighboring partner countries to help Ukraine protect freedom, independence and security in Europe. This was said by Head of the President’s Office Andriy Yermak during a conversation with media representatives following the “Kyiv Initiative” event.

“Today’s meeting is dedicated to the format that we called the “Kyiv Initiative”. The goal we set and achieved is the coordination of our efforts. We talked about many things today. First of all, it is security. We informed our colleagues about the situation at the front, about what is necessary for our success to be even greater. We talked about the continuation of sanctions pressure. We talked about future security guarantees for Ukraine,” said Andriy Yermak.

The Head of the President’s Office highly evaluated the results of the first meeting. According to him, an agreement was reached to hold meetings of the initiative every month, in particular in the format of a video conference. He expressed belief that the circle of participants of this format will expand – other partners of Ukraine will join it.

“I think it is critically important today for all our partners to be in the same information field, to get all the latest news directly from us, so that we can coordinate our efforts. As I said, our victory will be a joint victory with our partners, with our neighbors, we are sure of that,” Andriy Yermak said.

According to him, during today’s meeting, among other things, the issue of providing security guarantees to Ukraine was discussed.

“I am glad that our partners are very interested in familiarization, and some are also willing to be guarantors of our security,” said the Head of the President’s Office.

As Andriy Yermak reported, the first recommendations from the Group on International Security Guarantees for Ukraine, which he chairs together with former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, should appear shortly.

“We are currently working on this document. I informed our colleagues about it today, they are also waiting with interest for this very powerful document,” he added.

Secretary of State, Head of the International Policy Bureau at the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland Jakub Kumoch said: “Your victory will be our victory. We always feel like a small part of your great victory during our visits to Kyiv. Today, Ukrainian women and men protect Europe from totalitarianism and tyranny. Thank you very much for that. And our states will help the Ukrainian people until victory.”

Chief Foreign Policy Adviser to the President of the Republic of Lithuania Asta Skaisgirytė emphasized that her state strongly supports the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.

“We sincerely believe in your victory,” she said.

Director of the Diplomatic Directorate of the Office of the President of Hungary Krzysztof Altus, for his part, noted that humanitarian aspects are also extremely important.

“Our hearts are always open to our Ukrainian friends. We will support all refugees who come to our country, but we will also do our best to help those who want to return to Ukraine,” he assured.

Advisor to the Romanian President on European Affairs (and Foreign Policy Affairs) Luminiţa -Teodora Odobescu thanked for the invitation to join this initiative and expressed complete solidarity with Ukraine.

Foreign Affairs Adviser to the President of Latvia Solveiga Silkalna emphasized that her country will stand with Ukraine until all the lands of our state are liberated from the occupiers.

Foreign Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Estonia Liis Lipre-Järma reaffirmed that the Estonian government supports the people of Ukraine in their struggle for freedom.

“Estonia supports you in every way on the path to Europe. And, of course, military aid is the number one priority,” Liis Lipre-Järma said.

Adviser to the President of Estonia Celia Kuningas-Saagpakk assured that her country will help Ukraine until victory.

Foreign Policy Advisor to the President of the Slovak Republic Jana Kobzová noted the importance of discussing the security situation in such a circle.

“You are defending not only your territories and your people, but also freedom in Europe. We are hopeful to continue our cooperation,” she said.

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 22 August 2022.

Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak held the first meeting of the new format called “Kyiv Initiative” with the participation of foreign policy advisors to the heads of state and government of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Hungary, which took place in Kyiv.

This high-level event, initiated by the Head of the Office of the President, is aimed at strengthening the coordination of countries in matters of regional security and practical cooperation in countering security threats.

At the beginning of the meeting, Andriy Yermak emphasized that today Ukraine defends not only its independence, sovereignty and the right to independently choose the future, but also the whole of Europe.

“Ukrainians die every day for our freedom and your freedom. Seizing Ukraine is not the only goal of the Kremlin. It wants domination in Europe. Its cruelty and appetites are only growing,” he noted.

In his opinion, by igniting various crises, Russia expects that in these conditions European countries will act according to the principle “every man for himself”, but Europe has already surprised the Kremlin.

The Head of the Office of the President stated that today Ukraine and the world need a military victory, as there is no periphery in the war started by the Russian Federation. Therefore, a common approach “one for all and all for one” should be continued.

“Maximum and timely support from Europe will help us end this terrible war as soon as possible. This is the only way we will liberate the occupied territories – Crimea, Donbas. This is the only way the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov can once again become a zone of security, trade and tourism,” Andriy Yermak is convinced.

As the Head of the President’s Office noted, the representation of many European states at the highest level at the second summit of the Crimea Platform is very important for Ukraine and the whole world.

“This event is another confirmation that Ukraine and its partners do not forget any Ukrainian region temporarily occupied by Russia,” he said.

Andriy Yermak also emphasized the importance of international legal responsibility of Russia for this aggression and the development of such a security system that will make it impossible to repeat a war like the current one in the future.

According to him, Ukraine is ready to be a reliable bastion of the eastern flank of the European Union and NATO, and it is also in common interests for Ukraine to become a member of the EU as soon as possible.

The main topics of discussion during this event were: the course of countering the Russian threat and the key needs in this regard; further sanctions pressure on Russia; Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine as a point of growth for the entire region.

Deputy Head of the Office of the President Andriy Sybiha told the advisors present about the Ukrainian vision of strengthening the consolidated sanctions policy against the Russian Federation, which, in particular, the Yermak-McFaul International Group is actively working on.

According to him, it is very important to strengthen sectoral sanctions in the spheres of energy, finance and trade, introduce further personal sanctions against oligarchs, high-ranking officials and key managers of state-owned enterprises of the Russian Federation, stop issuing visas to Russian citizens by all EU and G7 countries.

For his part, Deputy Head of the Office of the President Ihor Zhovkva touched upon the issue of European integration of Ukraine. He noted that our country is actively doing its part of the job in this direction and has set itself the goal of coping with it by the end of the year.

Press statement of the meeting of the “Kyiv Initiative” participants

On August 22, 2022, the leadership of the Office of the President of Ukraine, the head of the international policy bureau of the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland, the foreign policy advisors to the heads of state and government of the Republic of Estonia, Hungary, the Republic of Latvia, the Republic of Lithuania, Romania and the Slovak Republic held a meeting in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Participants of the “Kyiv Initiative”:

strongly condemned Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified military aggression against Ukraine as a flagrant violation of international law, in particular the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act;

noted the importance of the international community’s consolidated efforts to restore the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders, in particular through the further development of cooperation within the Crimea Platform;

reaffirmed the commitment to increase pressure on Russia for the purpose of withdrawing its troops from the sovereign territory of Ukraine and ending its war against Ukraine, in particular by further strengthening restrictive measures and sanctions that would significantly impede the ability of the Russian Federation to continue the war;

noted the importance of investigating war crimes and crimes against humanity committed against the civilian population and those who do not participate in hostilities in Ukraine, as well as bringing the perpetrators to justice;

emphasized the need to continue to provide Ukraine with political and practical support to defend against ongoing Russian aggression;

agreed to intensify joint efforts to strengthen cooperation with Ukraine in the field of regional and global security;

emphasized the importance of ensuring respect for international humanitarian law, including the rights and protections to be accorded to prisoners of war under the Geneva Conventions. In this context, the parties agreed to continue calling on the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross to immediately investigate the Russian attack that killed dozens of Ukrainian prisoners of war in Olenivka (Donetsk region);

praised the efforts of Ukraine, together with the Republic of Türkiye and the United Nations, aimed at ensuring the export of Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea ports in order to avoid shortages and famine caused by the blockade of these ports by Russia; in this context, the importance of the contribution of states – neighbors of Ukraine to simplifying the transit and export of Ukrainian grain and strengthening global food security was emphasized;

confirmed their readiness for active cooperation in order to develop and implement a mechanism to compensate Ukraine for the damage caused by the armed aggression of the Russian Federation;

confirmed their political commitment to active cooperation and participation in the post-war reconstruction and modernization of Ukraine, including the development of logistics and supply routes, simplification of border crossing and customs procedures, creation of new cargo terminals, creation of joint ventures in the field of production and maintenance of military equipment, unification of industrial hubs and their synchronization with those operating in the states neighboring Ukraine;

took note of the Fast Recovery Plan prepared by Ukraine in order to meet urgent needs in the reconstruction of housing, critical and social infrastructure, noted the current efforts of their national authorities to study the possibilities of participation in the implementation of this Plan;

praised the decision of the European Council of June 23, 2022 to grant Ukraine the status of a candidate for membership in the European Union and agreed to support the efforts for EU membership; in this regard, they noted the importance of implementing recommendations and reforms in relevant areas; confirmed their readiness to provide further support in this direction;

confirmed the need to promote the creation of financial support instruments within the EU and international financial institutions aimed at supporting Ukraine at the current stage, as well as at restoring the economy in accordance with its European aspirations;

emphasized the importance of the central role of the NATO-Ukraine Commission (NUC) in deepening political dialogue and cooperation in the light of Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations;

emphasized the need to further strengthen cooperation in the framework of the Enhanced Opportunities Partnership between Ukraine and NATO, as well as to ensure constant support to Ukraine, in particular by providing the Comprehensive Assistance Package as soon as possible;

confirmed the need to continue expanded political and operational cooperation between Ukraine and the Alliance in accordance with NATO’s open door policy and Ukraine’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations, in particular during the next NATO summit in Vilnius in 2023;

agreed to contribute to the development of comprehensive and legally binding security guarantees for Ukraine;

expressed hope for the continuation of a regular dialogue on topical issues of regional security in the framework of the Kyiv Initiative.

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 22 August 2022.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that the state should make veteran policy a priority of its activity, as respect for our defenders should be felt at all levels of public life. He said this during a speech at the “Defenders. Roll Call” forum , which takes place in the framework of the 5th International Volunteer and Veteran Forum “Ukraine Is Where We Are”.

The Head of State emphasized that every veteran should feel the gratitude of Ukrainians for his or her feat. He outlined the components that should form the basis of state policy.

“Veteran policy is a priority and independent direction of state policy. Not an addition to something, not on the residual principle, but a priority and independent direction,” the President emphasized.

In his opinion, all the details of the state policy regarding veterans should be determined in cooperation with the veteran community.

“Veterans should not only know what is being done for them and about them, but also participate in the development of concrete solutions. So that it is not the official who decides, but the veteran,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The President noted that the state and business should do everything possible so that Ukrainian veterans do not lose the feeling that they are needed by the state and society, and have a perspective.

“First of all, this means a well-thought-out system of support for veterans during the transition from military to civilian life. No one from the veteran community should be left alone with difficulties, no matter what they are,” he emphasized.

According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, veterans should receive the necessary assistance in obtaining education, employment and starting their own business.

“It should be an honor for every employer in Ukraine to have veterans of the war for the independence of Ukraine among its employees,” said the President.

The Head of State noted that these principles should be followed not only by representatives of the authorities, but also by all Ukrainians.

“All elements of veterans’ policy need a modern legislative framework, clear coordination of state authorities and local self-government, awareness of business and the public of their part of responsibility in this area,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy is convinced.

The President announced that he signed the law that develops the system of transition from military career to civilian life.

The Head of State also emphasized the need to solve the problem of housing for servicemen and veterans.

“Last year, we set the final solution of this problem as one of the key tasks. And now I not only confirm this task – despite all the difficulties, whatever they may be, I guarantee that we will fulfill it,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

The President noted that in the framework of the plan for reconstruction and further development of Ukraine, all conditions will be envisaged for clear and transparent provision of housing for Ukrainian military personnel and veterans.

The Head of State paid special attention to the system of rehabilitation of former defenders, which should focus on the development and adaptation of a person.

“We have to make sure that no one is afraid to talk about their problems because of what they experienced in war. And everyone should get the necessary help,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed.

The President said that on the initiative of the First Lady of Ukraine, the National Program of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support is being created, which will be aimed in particular at helping veterans.

“At the level of the Ministry of Veteran Affairs, relevant initiatives are also being implemented, but there should be more of them, much more, and they should be all-Ukrainian, so that every region of our country has a modern, convenient and effective rehabilitation system,” he said.

The Head of State also announced that he would give a prize of USD 100,000 for the Medal of Freedom awarded to him by the US National Constitution Center for the reconstruction and renovation of the rehabilitation center in Borodyanka, Kyiv region. The President also plans to make a personal contribution to the development of the veterans’ rehabilitation system.

“I believe that this award is not for me personally, it is an award for the bravery of the entire Ukrainian people, our Armed Forces, and for the desire of all our people to be free,” he said.

According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, society should realize the role of veterans and their feat in the name of all Ukrainians.

“The state will do its part in the management, information, and, importantly, educational spheres. It is important to do this every day. But this requires the active participation of the veteran community. No one can tell about veterans better than themselves,” the President is convinced.

The Head of State emphasized that veterans, together with other citizens, should preserve and pass on to the next generations the truth about the war for the independence of Ukraine.

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 22 August 2022.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in the “Defenders. Roll Call” forum , which takes place in the framework of the 5th International Volunteer and Veteran Forum “Ukraine Is Where We Are”, and presented state awards to the defenders of our state.

“My address today is, of course, primarily about veterans. But it is not only for veterans. Not only for our warriors and all those who dedicate their lives to serving Ukraine with weapons in their hands. This appeal of mine is for all our people. And it is about the fact that the veterans’ cause has truly become national. It is a matter of both the state and our society,” he said during his speech to the participants of the event.

According to the President, at the beginning of this year, before the full-scale Russian invasion, there were about 500,000 combatants in Ukraine. Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that today the official launch of the website will take place in the framework of the forum, thanks to which everyone will be able to get an idea of the scale of the veteran community in the country.

“Now about a million people are defending Ukraine in the Armed Forces and in other formations that oppose the occupiers. Who are they, this million? What is it like to fight with Russian terrorists until our victory? This means that everyone in Ukraine will have veteran relatives, or veteran friends, or veteran colleagues, or veteran acquaintances. This means that the veteran community will become one of the largest in the country. And this means that appropriate changes are needed that reflect this new reality in the state policy regarding veterans, in the public perception of veterans and in all our economic players,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.

The President emphasized the importance of unconditional respect for veterans at all levels of public life in Ukraine. And this respect should be embodied not in words, but in quite practical things.

The participants of the forum honored the memory of the fallen defenders with a moment of silence.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented the Gold Star Orders to the members of the families of the fallen Ukrainian defenders, who were awarded this title posthumously.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy also presented the award of the President of Ukraine “Cross of Combat Merit”.

“On February 24, every Ukrainian made perhaps the most important choice in his life. And the choice of millions of people in favor of Ukraine led to the fact that our state did what almost no one in the world expected from it. Because they frankly underestimated Ukrainians, they didn’t know all of you, our veterans, they didn’t know that Ukraine is a country of bravery, a country of heroes, a country of people who immediately united to protect Ukrainian freedom and will never give up freedom to anyone,” the President emphasized.

The Head of State thanked everyone who helps the veteran community and the defense forces of our country, and expressed belief in the victory of Ukraine.

The forum was also attended by: Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Oleksiy Danilov, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Valerii Zaluzhny, parliamentarians and government officials.

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 22 August 2022.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska took part in the ceremony of awarding prominent Ukrainians with the National Legend of Ukraine award of the Head of State.

Congratulating the laureates, Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that it was an honor for him today to meet each of those present – representatives of the heroic Ukrainian people.

“This award, launched a year ago, despite its short history, has an important meaning and purpose. This is a proper tribute by the state to its talents, geniuses and heroes. Those who are among us, and we should notice them. Those who, unfortunately, are no longer with us, but we must remember them,” the President emphasized.

“For the second year in a row, we award wonderful, talented and heroic citizens of our state with this award. But this year, its meaning has changed somewhat – we award not only legendary representatives of Ukraine in music, theater, and sports. The Russian Federation has changed the meaning of our lives, so today we award all those who every day, both inside the state and outside, protect our independence and sovereignty with their talent and their work – different, but extremely important,” he noted.

This year, for outstanding personal merits in the establishment of independent Ukraine and strengthening of its statehood, protection of the Motherland and service to the Ukrainian people, significant contribution to the development of national education, art, sports, health care, many years of fruitful public activity, the President’s award “National Legend of Ukraine” was awarded to nine Ukrainians, posthumously to three of them.

In particular, People’s Artist of Ukraine Maria Prymachenko was posthumously honored. The award was received by Ihor Kozhan, general director of the Andrey Sheptytsky National Museum in Lviv, where the artist’s works are currently being exhibited.

“Her name is included in the World Encyclopedia of Art. UNESCO declared 2009 the year of Maria Prymachenko. And on May 5 of this year, her painting “The Flowers Grew Around the Fourth Block” was sold at a charity auction for almost 15 million hryvnias, which were donated to the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. That is, even today, a quarter of a century after her death, Maria Prymachenko lives and actually continues to help Ukraine. And today, Ukraine finally says “thank you” to her and pays tribute to her in accordance with her contribution and merits, officially and forever recognizes that she is our great Ukrainian artist. A great Ukrainian woman. Maria Oksentiivna Prymachenko is a national legend of Ukrainian painting,” said the President.

The award from the hands of Volodymyr Zelenskyy was received by chief of the guard of the fire and rescue unit of the Main Department of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in the Mykolaiv region, lieutenant of the civil protection service Ihor Ivasykov. Thanks to his actions, 17 people were rescued from the rubble of the State Administration building in Mykolaiv.

“17 lives saved. At least 17 reasons to be here today,” the Head of State emphasized.

The “National Legend of Ukraine” award was also handed over to two doctors – neurosurgeon of the department of the Institute of Neurosurgery named after academician Romodanov of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine Andriy Svyst and pediatrician of the Children’s Medical Center “Dobrobut” Olha Svyst.

“A family of doctors who ended up in Bucha almost by accident at the beginning of the war. Unable to leave the city, they called friends and asked them to adopt their children – aged five and two – if they did not return. For two weeks under constant shelling, without proper equipment, they performed extremely complex operations, rescuing seriously wounded children,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The President’s award was also presented to Anatoliy Babichev, conductor of the passenger car of the Kyiv-Passenger station of JSC “Ukrainian Railway”.

“For nine days non-stop, his train has been evacuating people from Kostyantynivka, Kharkiv, Kramatorsk and Lyman. His wife Natalya worked in the same train, in another car. On the night of March 12-13, she died during the shelling of the train. Despite the personal tragedy, Anatoliy did not break down, he returned to service, to saving people,” the President said.

Hanna But, a teacher at the Melitopol Vocational Agrarian Lyceum, also became a laureate of the award.

“Despite the occupation, she raises her students to be patriots and is not afraid to tell them the truth, organized pro-Ukrainian rallies under the occupation, despite the threats and violent actions of the invaders. The video, where she, wrapped in the flag of Ukraine, demands more decisive actions from the international community, got into almost all the world’s media and social networks. Millions of people on the planet have heard: Melitopol is Ukraine,” the Head of State emphasized.

Public figure, volunteer Tata Kepler was also honored.

“Just like thousands of volunteers, she has been helping our army for eight years in a row. And it is impossible to calculate for sure how much important things for the lives of our soldiers, powerful people, were found and delivered during this time – first-aid kits, medical backpacks, tourniquets, body armor and other equipment. I want to thank all the volunteers of Ukraine in her person. Thank you very much,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The award was also given to the best football player in Europe in 2004, the head coach of the Ukrainian national football team in 2016-2021, Hero of Ukraine Andriy Shevchenko .

“Legend of Dynamo Kyiv and the national team of Ukraine. Champions League winner and Golden Ball winner. His name is included in the list of the hundred best football players in history. These and many other titles made him famous throughout the world. And now they are helping him rally the whole world to support and help Ukraine. Ambassador of the UNITED24 platform, our great athlete, great champion, our legend Andriy Shevchenko,” said the President.

Anatoliy Solovyanenko, a leading stage master of the National Opera of Ukraine in 1963-1992, a national artist and Hero of Ukraine, was posthumously awarded the title of “National Legend of Ukraine” for his significant creative work and strengthening of the country’s cultural glory. The artist’s wife Svitlana Dmytrivna and son Anatoliy received the award.

The head of the flight safety service – senior inspector-pilot of the Command of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Hero of Ukraine Colonel Ihor Bedzai was posthumously awarded as well. The wife of the fallen defender Yulia Viktorivna and daughter Maria received the award.

“Military pilot of the top class. Hero of Ukraine. Behind these titles is a whole life devoted to service for the benefit of the state. Impressive qualities and deeds. His experience is dozens of important combat missions. His students are 15 crews. His courage is ten units of aviation equipment, which he took to Mykolaiv from the blocked airfield in Saki in 2014 under extremely high risk conditions. His example is 217 warriors from Crimea who, following him, remained loyal to the oath and to Ukraine,” the Head of State said.

According to the President, on May 7, 2022, during a search and rescue operation, Ihor Bedzai’s Mi-14 was hit by a missile from an enemy aircraft, as a result of which the colonel, defending his native land, remained in the sky forever.

Those present at the ceremony honored the memory of those who gave their lives for Ukraine with a moment of silence.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that all those honored are the treasure of our state, and emphasized the importance of preserving their achievements, because after the victory over the enemy, talents must be passed from one generation to another.

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 19 August 2022.

Ukrainians!

All Europeans!

For 177 days already, the report on the events in Ukraine is important for the entire continent.

Ukrainian diplomats, our partners, representatives of the UN and the IAEA are working out the specific details of the mission to be sent to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. With this mission, the restoration of full security at the ZNPP and in Enerhodar can begin. And I am grateful to everyone who joined this work and initiative.

If Russian blackmail with radiation continues, this summer may go down in the history of various European countries as one of the most tragic of all time. Because not a single instruction at any nuclear power plant in the world envisages a procedure in case a terrorist state turns a nuclear power plant into a target.

Of course, today it is worth paying attention to another aspect of Russian blackmail in the field of energy. Gas supplies to Germany via the first Nord Stream are again being restricted and absurd statements are being made again that it is allegedly possible to compensate for something via Nord Stream 2. These “streams” are needed by Russia exclusively to supply problems to Europe, not to help someone there with gas. Now it is absolutely obvious.

The longer the terrorist state remains on the European and world energy market, the longer it will not be stable. And the sooner everyone in Europe prepares their energy systems to exist without any supply of energy carriers from Russia, the sooner they will be able to calmly go through any winter.

Today there was a very important visit to Ukraine by Eurocities representatives led by the mayor of Florence. This Association unites the mayors of more than 150 European cities, as well as representatives of dozens of other partner cities.

We will cooperate with them directly – Ukrainian cities and communities with European cities and communities.

The key issue is, of course, the rebuilding of our cities. The relevant memorandum was signed today. But not only this will be the subject of our important cooperation.

The modern development of any country is primarily the development of cities, the creation of new opportunities and institutions in cities, the exchange of experience between cities and urban institutions. And therefore, these are new jobs, greater social capital and higher level of security for people.

On the Ukrainian side, the subject of relations with the Association of European Cities will be our Congress of Local and Regional Authorities. I want to assure that every city of our state will benefit from this. We are interested in sustainable development throughout the territory of Ukraine – and it will be so. Without any exceptions.

And today I want to address separately the residents of all our cities of Ukraine, which are subjected to constant brutal shelling by Russia. Kharkiv, Mykolaiv, all the cities of Donbas, the Dnipropetrovsk region, the Zaporizhzhia region… All those who experience this constant horror of the destruction of life and the destruction of everything that gives life normality. We will not leave any of these strikes unanswered. We will establish the identity of every occupier who gives orders and executes these strikes at cities. And we will bring them all to justice in one way or another. No murderer will hide.

And we will certainly restore everything that the terrorists try to leave in ruins. The word “ruins” will never be a word about Ukraine, will never be a word about our cities. Russia will definitely not succeed in this.

Eternal glory to all who bring our victory closer!

Eternal glory to all who fight for our beautiful, strong Ukraine, for our people!

Glory to Ukraine!

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 19 August 2022.

Deputy Head of the Office of the President Andriy Smyrnov and Ambassador-at-Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Anton Korynevych met in the Office of the President with British barrister Geoffrey Nice, who was the lead prosecutor in the case of ex-President of Serbia Slobodan Milošević at the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia. The parties discussed the establishment of a Special Tribunal for the crime of aggression against Ukraine, which will organize the trial of the highest political and military leadership of the Russian Federation.

“I consider this a completely logical initiative and fully share the need to create an international tribunal to investigate the crime of aggression by Russia’s political leadership. I’m sure it can be created quickly. And I want to wish Ukraine to move towards the creation of the court energetically, regardless of any skeptical assessments. The Milošević case says that even the highest official will sooner or later be punished for his crimes. This fully applies to Vladimir Putin as well,” said Geoffrey Nice.

Andriy Smyrnov emphasized that the establishment of the Special Tribunal and the punishment of all members of the Security Council of Russia is key to the future system of international law.

“If today we do not show the whole world that the crime of aggression is severely punished, if we do not bring Vladimir Putin and his entire clique to criminal responsibility, tomorrow any dictator can make territorial claims to any country in the world. And the international security system can be forever forgotten,” Andriy Smyrnov said.

Anton Korynevych, Ambassador-at-Large of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that Russia’s attack on Ukraine is the biggest aggression and caused the largest war in Europe since the end of World War II, and therefore the creation of a Special Tribunal, which will be responsible for trial of the higher political and military leadership of the Russian Federation for committing the crime of aggression against Ukraine is an appropriate legal response to this brutal invasion.

It bears reminding that Ukraine undertook the initiative to create a Special Tribunal, which will prosecute members of the Security Council of Russia for committing the crime of aggression against our state. Previously, the creation of such a tribunal was supported by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, the European Parliament, the NATO Parliamentary Assembly and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly.

The press release issued by the President of Ukraine on 30 June 2022.

Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Ihor Zhovkva took part in the opening of the first working session of the NATO Summit in Madrid, during which President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the heads of state and government of the Alliance countries. The key topic of the summit was strengthening support for our state in countering Russian aggression.

During meetings with Assistant Secretary General for Operations Thomas Goffus and Director of the Private Office of the NATO Secretary General Stian Jenssen, Ihor Zhovkva discussed the issue of expanding Ukraine’s practical cooperation with the Alliance and the expected decisions of the NATO Summit in this direction. Particular attention was paid to the implementation of the enhanced Comprehensive Assistance Package for Ukraine, which envisages the provision of the necessary non-lethal military assistance to the Armed Forces, as well as the implementation of long-term projects for the modernization of the security and defense sector of our state and the development of its defense capabilities.

Ihor Zhovkva discussed the provisions of the new NATO Strategic Concept concerning Ukraine and Russian aggression with Assistant Secretary General for Public Diplomacy Baiba Braže.

“It is very important that in the new Strategic Concept, the Alliance clearly recognized Russia as an aggressor and the most significant and direct threat to the security of NATO member states and the entire Euro-Atlantic space,” the Deputy Head of the President’s Office emphasized.

In addition, he positively assessed the reflection of NATO’s open door policy and the confirmation of the decision of the Bucharest Summit in 2008 that Ukraine would become a member of the Alliance in the document.

The situation in the war zone in Ukraine and the issue of existing military threats from Russia became the key topics of Ihor Zhovkva’s meeting with NATO Assistant Secretary General for Intelligence and Security David Cattler.

On the sidelines of the Madrid Summit, the Deputy Head of the President’s Office also held a meeting with President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly Gerald Connolly. Ihor Zhovkva expressed gratitude for the strong support of Ukraine from the Parliamentary Assembly demonstrated during the spring session at the end of May in Vilnius.

“We are very grateful for the strong signals in the Standing with Ukraine declaration adopted by the Parliamentary Assembly on May 30. It is extremely important that in this declaration the assembly called on the governments and parliaments of the member countries of the Alliance to continue to support Ukraine with all possible help, to significantly increase the supply of the necessary weapons, in particular air defense systems, artillery, anti-missile and anti-ship systems, as well as to strengthen destructive sanctions against Russia, including full abandonment of Russian energy sources,” Ihor Zhovkva noted.

In Madrid, the Deputy Head of the Office of the President also held a meeting with the bipartisan delegation of the US Senate led by Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Senator Thomas Tillis.

“We are very grateful for everything that the US is doing for Ukraine. For the supply of weapons and ammunition, military training, financial assistance, strengthening of sanctions against the aggressor,” Ihor Zhovkva emphasized.

He noted the extremely important role of the US Senate and Congress in general in expanding defense aid and economic support to Ukraine, increasing sanctions pressure on Russia, and bringing those guilty of war crimes to justice.

“Ukraine urgently needs to get more heavy Western weapons, in particular anti-missile weapons, in order to stop the aggressor and prevent even more casualties among the civilian population,” the Deputy Head of the President’s Office told the senators.

On the sidelines of the summit, Ihor Zhovkva talked with the leaders of NATO member states. In particular, he congratulated Prime Minister of Spain Pedro Sánchez on the successful holding of the NATO Summit, which turned out to be extremely effective, in particular, in the context of strengthening NATO’s support for Ukraine.

“I’m also thankful to Spain for the assistance provided to us at the bilateral level,” he noted.

During the meeting with the Spanish Prime Minister, the urgent needs of our country for protection against Russian aggression and restoration of territorial integrity were discussed in detail. The interlocutors discussed the initiative of the Prime Minister of Spain regarding alternative ways of transporting Ukrainian grain to international markets.