Zelensky published a video next to the stele at the entrance to Sloviansk.

The head of state congratulated Ukrainian defenders and emphasized that all of Ukraine is proud of them.

Zelensky showed a video from Donbas on his Telegram channel.

"Traditionally, I meet this day on the front line with our fighters. Today we are in Donbas. The combat zone has become larger, the struggle is harder, and the price is higher... I believe that next time we will meet in our Ukrainian Donetsk, Luhansk. I am sure that in Crimea. Thank you for this stability and strength. You are an outpost of our independence," the president said.

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is proud of its Ground Forces, Air Force, Naval Forces, Special Operations Forces, Military Intelligence, Airborne Assault Forces and all Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The President emphasized that there is something that remains unchanged, stable, and steel — it is the courage, endurance, and will of the Ukrainian forces, and therefore, our independence.

Zelensky added that someone called himself the "second army of the world", and now everyone can see who has the first place and emphasized that the path to a free Ukraine lies through free Donetsk, Luhansk and Crimea.

In addition, the head of state awarded Ukrainian soldiers for their courage and bravery in the fight against the enemy.

It will be recalled that the command of the Armed Forces also joined in congratulating the Ukrainian defenders on their professional holiday.

In particular, Ukrainian defenders were congratulated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Valery Zaluzhny, Commander of the Combined Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Serhiy Nayev and Commander of the Air Force of Ukraine Lieutenant General Mykola Oleschuk.

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