On August 29, Ukraine honors the memory of our defenders who gave their lives for the freedom, independence, and territorial integrity of our state.

The date of August 29 serves as a reminder of the sacrifice of Ukrainian warriors during the Battle of Ilovaisk in 2014, when the enemy treacherously opened fire on a column of Ukrainian military personnel as they were leaving the besieged city. In time, this date became a commemoration of all Ukrainian warriors who have fallen while repelling Russian aggression.

On this day, we commemorate all who died defending Ukraine. Behind every fallen hero’s name lies a human life, a family, dreams, and a future sacrificed for the freedom of our state and the right of Ukrainians to live in their own independent country. We remember the warriors, volunteers, medical personnel, and all who stood up to defend Ukraine and died in the line of duty.

The memory of the fallen is not merely an honor paid to the past. It is our responsibility to those who gave what was most precious, and to their families. It is a duty to establish the truth, ensure justice, and hold the perpetrators accountable.

This day serves as a reminder of the price of Ukraine’s freedom, independence, and sovereignty. Yet it also reminds us of the price of peace in Europe. Ukrainian heroes halted the advance of Russian aggression deeper into the European continent. They stood up in defense of international law and justice for all peace-loving nations of the world.

Honoring the memory of fallen Ukrainian heroes is a duty shared by all of Europe and the world. We call upon the world to commemorate the Ukrainian warriors who have been killed while repelling Russian aggression.

Ukraine urges the international community to step up pressure on the Russian Federation. We will not forget a single victim of Russian aggression. It is our duty to make every effort to ensure that every crime is properly investigated, every victim receives truth and justice, and the aggressor is punished.

In this context, we appeal to all states that value human life, truth, and justice to join the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. Holding the top military and political leadership of the Russian Federation and their accomplices accountable will be an appropriate tribute to the memory of fallen Ukrainian warriors.

We remember. We honor. We fight for Ukraine.