In Ukraine, August 29 is observed as Memorial Day for those who died in the struggle for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the country.

This day was established by the decree of the President of Ukraine on August 23, 2019, to honor the heroism of military personnel and volunteers who gave their lives for their homeland.

The date of August 29 was chosen deliberately, as it marks the significant breakthrough of Ukrainian troops from Russian encirclement during the Ilovaisk operation in 2014, showcasing the mass heroism of defenders.

The memory of fallen Ukrainian soldiers obliges us to remain strong in the defense of our homeland, emphasized the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

He stated that since 2014, Russian aggression has claimed the lives of Ukrainians daily, with each loss representing an unspeakable pain for families and comrades.

“However, the sacrifice of each soldier is the foundation of our nation's freedom. The memory of the heroes reminds us of the cost of this freedom,” said the Commander-in-Chief.

Today, Ukraine honors those who gave the utmost for liberty. The Minister of Defense also expressed gratitude to the defenders who stopped the enemy from the very beginning of the aggression.

The symbol of this day is the sunflower, which grew in the battlefields of Ilovaisk, where Ukrainian soldiers stood for their homeland.

“We continue the fight for independence. We remember. We fight. We will prevail!” the minister concluded.