On the eve of the Day of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Navy personnel in Odesa, congratulated them on their professional holiday, and presented them with state awards.
“Together with the other branches of Ukraine's Defense and Security Forces, the Ukrainian Navy has achieved what many believed was impossible. Russia has lost the Black Sea. Beginning with the liberation of Zmiinyi Island and continuing through our operations against the Russian fleet, ports, and the occupying forces in our Crimea, we keep proving that this region – the Black Sea region and the Sea of Azov region – will never be a place of peace and quiet for Russia,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed.
The President thanked naval personnel for protecting Ukraine from Russian drones and missiles, and praised the courage and effectiveness of Ukraine’s Marine Corps units, which are fighting on the most difficult frontlines. Ukraine’s Marine Corps is the largest and most experienced in Europe.
The President noted that every component of the Ukrainian Navy will continue to be strengthened. He also expressed gratitude for the development of Ukraine’s missile capabilities, particularly the coastal missile brigade serving within the Ukrainian Navy, thanks to which Harpoon and Neptune missile systems effectively counter the Russian fleet and are also used in Ukraine’s deep-strike operations.
The President announced the establishment of a new mine countermeasures brigade, which will operate at sea and, when needed, help Ukraine’s partners ensure maritime security.
“This is our advantage over many others in Europe: we can turn Ukraine's experience, professionalism, and military expertise into the foundation of new security guarantees for those who have helped us and continue to help us,” the Head of State noted.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also signed a decree establishing a Naval Academy in Odesa.
“I know this is something our Naval Forces need. We have the capacity to make it happen, and accordingly, most importantly, our cadets and our young people have the desire to serve Ukraine and defend Ukraine. Our Navy has experience – not just theory, but practical experience. And it is critically important that this knowledge be passed on to all our cadets, to the next generation. We will definitely accomplish all our tasks,” the President said.
The Head of State called on everyone to remember all those who gave their lives for Ukraine. The memory of the fallen Ukrainians was honored with a moment of silence.
The President presented state awards to 25 Navy warriors, including the Cross of Military Merit, the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, III class, the Orders “For Courage,” II and III class, the Order of Danylo Halytskyi, and the Medal “For Military Service to Ukraine.”
The Head of State presented the battle flag to the 12th Landing Craft Brigade of the Naval Forces Flotilla and awarded the ribbon of distinction “For Courage and Bravery” to the 65th and 68th Separate Coastal Missile Divisions of the 360th Separate Coastal Missile Brigade.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also met with the children of Navy service members and had an opportunity to view an exhibition of their artwork. The children are winners of the annual Tryzub Above the Waves competition, held to mark the Day of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. They told the President about their drawings, interests, and dreams, and presented him with a painting symbolizing Ukraine’s victory.
