In Dublin, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and First Lady Olena Zelenska met with the families of Irish volunteer servicemembers who were killed defending Ukraine against Russian aggression.
“For me, it is an honor to meet you today, to get to know you, and to personally present the awards of your children who gave their lives for Ukraine. This is an honor for Ukraine. Our people’s freedom was defended at such an immense price,” the Head of State said.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his condolences and gratitude for raising people who lived so far from Ukraine yet gave their lives in the fight for its freedom.
“We hold your children in the highest regard. I am very proud of them. Every time I present awards in Ukraine and see the families, the mothers and fathers, I feel this pain. And today, we want to share it with you. We are very proud of your strong people. They are heroes – all of them – true heroes. And not just for our country,” the President emphasized.
The Head of State presented the Orders “For Courage,” III class, posthumously awarded to soldiers Graham Dale, Robert Deegan, and Alex Ryzhuk, to their families.