President Volodymyr Zelenskyy congratulated the Armed Forces of Ukraine on the 30th anniversary of its creation during the solemn events that took place in Kharkiv, on Svoboda Square. The broadcast was hosted by the President's Office on YouTube.

Zelensky began his speech with a minute of silence in memory of the dead soldiers who gave their lives for the sovereignty of Ukraine.

He recalled that the law on the Armed Forces of Ukraine was adopted on December 5, 1991.. “However, the traditions of our troops and the defense of our native land date back millennia of our glorious history,” Zelensky said..

" This is a symbol of our country, all of Ukraine, which was defended from Russia's aggression in 2014 and continues to be defended today by our military, "

He noted that in relation to all branches of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Ukrainians feel "

The President also recalled the tragedy that happened a year ago, when an An-26 plane crashed near Chuguev with 26 cadets and military personnel of the Kharkiv Air Force University.. Their memory was also honored with a minute of silence.. The event was attended by the only surviving cadet, Vyacheslav Zolochevsky..

Zelensky said three An-178 military transport aircraft will be delivered to the university.

" And we sincerely congratulate our defenders and defenders. We endlessly thank all of you, our fighters, "

After that, the military units were solemnly presented with new samples of military equipment and weapons, as well as state awards.

Earlier today, Zelenskiy visited the forward positions of the Ukrainian army in the zone of the joint forces operation.. There, the head of state talked to the servicemen and presented valuable gifts and state awards..