Defenders' Day: Territorial Defense Day in Ukraine
On October 5, 2025, Ukraine celebrates the Defenders' Day. This holiday was established by the President of Ukraine's decree “On the Day of Territorial Defense of Ukraine” dated September 30, 2020, considering the importance of territorial defense for the country's defense capabilities, and is celebrated annually on the first Sunday of October.
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Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal congratulated the Territorial Defense forces on their professional holiday and emphasized that they have shown the best qualities of the Ukrainian character since the onset of the war.
«Today we honor the brave Ukrainians who took up arms in the most critical moments of our history and stood to defend Ukraine. From the very first days of the full-scale war, the Troops of Territorial Defense displayed the best traits of the Ukrainian spirit – courage, dedication, and resilience,» said Shmyhal.
He highlighted that today Ukraine expresses gratitude to the Troops of Territorial Defense for their significant contribution to the protection of our people and common home.
«Eternal memory to the Troops of Territorial Defense who gave their lives for the freedom of Ukraine and Ukrainians. Glory to everyone who defends Ukraine!», emphasized Shmyhal.
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Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Ruslan Stefanchuk, on the occasion of Territorial Defense Day, noted that the Troops of Territorial Defense are a symbol of Ukrainians' readiness to defend their land at all times.
«Territorial Defense is a symbol of our readiness to protect our land at any moment. Since the first days of the Russian invasion, thousands of men and women in the Territorial Defense Forces have stood to defend Ukrainian cities and villages, stopping the enemy where they tried to break through, securing critical infrastructure, and protecting people from sabotage and attacks,» noted Stefanchuk.
«I thank everyone who serves in the Territorial Defense. Your determination and willingness to stand up for your homeland is the strength that makes Ukraine unbreakable. We also honor the memory of fallen soldiers. Today and every day, during the national moment of silence, Ukraine bows its head in memory of everyone who gave their lives for freedom,» emphasized Stefanchuk.
