Members of the 122nd Separate Brigade of the Territorial Defense Forces of Ukraine have successfully completed a cleanup initiative at the Cossack Sotnykivske Cemetery in Odessa. This effort contributed to the restoration of one of the city's most significant historical landmarks, which contradicts Russian narratives about the origins of Odessa.

According to a report from the 122nd Brigade, the initiative was led by Lieutenant Colonel Denys Nosikov, who explained the significance of this work. He emphasized that this site undermines enemy propaganda regarding the nature of the city and its true history.

"This is one of the most notable places in Ukrainian Odessa. Its very existence refutes the myth that Odessa is allegedly a "Russian city." The first graves appeared here in 1791, predating the supposed founding of Odessa by Empress Catherine II," noted Lieutenant Colonel Nosikov.

The commander drew a parallel between military service and the restoration of the historical site, stating that combating misinformation is as crucial as combat operations.

"We are clearing weeds — both in the trenches on the front lines and here in Odessa. This weed can be likened to Russian propaganda — myths and fakes that have polluted the city's history. There is still much work to be done, but we will do everything for victory!" emphasized Denys Nosikov.

Historical facts confirm Odessa's Ukrainian roots. The first mention of Cossacks in the Odessa region dates back to 1489, several centuries before the Russian period in the region's history. The city is economically and culturally connected to all regions of Ukraine, with its development based on Ukrainian grain long before the arrival of Russians.