Odessa commemorated an important event - the 34th anniversary of Ukraine's Independence, paying tribute to those who sacrificed their lives to defend the nation.

The ceremony at the Memorial to the Fighters for Ukraine saw participation from local officials, community activists, military personnel, veterans, clergy, and city residents. Attendees honored the fallen with a moment of silence and expressed gratitude to all who continue to defend Ukraine.

On this national holiday, awards were presented to individuals who made significant contributions to the defense of the country. One such honor was the President of Ukraine's order "For the Defense of Ukraine," awarded to Petro Senyak, an excavator operator from the municipal enterprise "City Roads," for his involvement in building fortifications in the Donetsk region.