Every year on December 12, Ukraine celebrates a significant holiday - Land Forces Day.

This day was established by a decree of the President of Ukraine on October 18, 1997, to recognize the role of the Land Forces as the core component of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in ensuring national security.

On this day, all units are honored, including mechanized, tank, and rocket troops, artillery, army aviation, air defense units, and special forces.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, emphasized that the land forces are at the forefront of Ukraine’s defense.

“The land forces represent a powerful force that unites various units, including mechanized, tank, artillery units, army aviation, air defense, drones, and special forces. Today, this is an army of a new generation that continues to fight for Ukraine,” Syrskyi stated in his Facebook post.

At the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion, land forces became the first shield against the aggressors.

“The Ukrainian infantry defended Kyiv, repelled attacks during the Slobozhansky offensive operation, liberated the right bank of Kherson, defeated Wagner troops in Bakhmut, and engaged the enemy in Kursk. The land forces are the frontline of Ukraine’s defense. Fortifications are important, but they mean nothing without our infantry,” Syrskyi stressed.

The Commander also mentioned that currently, the Land Forces are undergoing unprecedented transformations right on the battlefield.

“Drones, ground robots, combat modules, modern electronic warfare systems, and mobile assault groups are the new daily reality of the Land Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. I am proud to command these forces, which are the strongest in Europe,” he highlighted.

On this day, we also honor all Land Forces warriors who have given their lives for Ukraine’s freedom and independence in the fight against Russian invaders. Eternal memory and glory to the heroes.

“Thank you to every soldier of the Land Forces for your service to the Ukrainian people, your resilience, and your faith in our victory. You are the ones protecting our land,” Syrskyi noted.

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Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal emphasized in a Telegram message that this holiday is for those who bravely repel Russian assaults across all fronts and steadfastly hold their positions under enemy fire.

“For Ukraine! For its freedom!” - under this slogan, the Land Forces daily destroy the enemy, making them pay a heavy price for aggression against our nation,” Shmyhal underscored.

He also thanked every defender serving in the Land Forces for their dedication and courage. “Eternal memory to those who have returned home on their shields,” he added.

“Glory to the Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine! Glory to the Ukrainian military!” - concluded the Minister of Defense.