Metropolitan Epiphanius and Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov unveiled the first-ever Memorial dedicated to Ukrainian intelligence officers.

This memorial, located in the capital, honors the memory of not only Ukrainian personnel but also foreign volunteers who sacrificed their lives in the fight for Ukraine's independence.

At the core of the Memorial is the word Aeternitas (“Eternity”), inscribed in Latin and various global languages, symbolizing the international unity in the struggle for freedom. Alongside Ukrainians, volunteers from over 50 countries serve in the military intelligence ranks.

Two pillars in the design represent wings and shields, conveying motion, strength, and unwavering resistance. Between the pillars lies a silent space where the names of fallen heroes are inscribed.

From a bird's eye view, the layout of the pillars and central element resembles the shape of an owl's eye — a symbol of eternal vigilance and protection.

 The Memorial was consecrated by His Beatitude Metropolitan Epiphanius of Kyiv and All Ukraine.

“Each of the fallen intelligence officers made the ultimate sacrifice — giving their lives for others, for Ukraine. This is not only a military feat but also a spiritual one. Let us remember that the Lord is where people are ready to give themselves out of love for others. The Memorial we consecrated today is a sign of this sacrificial love and the unbreakable spirit that leads us to victory over evil,” said His Beatitude Epiphanius.

 The Memorial's creator is renowned sculptor Nazar Bylyk, who previously designed a memorial for the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred in Lviv.

“This memorial is about dignity and silent dialogue. We aimed to create a space where the presence of those who will not return is felt. The Memorial speaks of silence, in which strength can be heard,” noted Nazar Bylyk.

The memory of the fallen intelligence officers was honored with a moment of silence and a military salute. General Lieutenant Kyrylo Budanov, along with military intelligence personnel and the families of the fallen fighters, laid flowers at the Memorial.

“Many of our intelligence officers, unfortunately, returned on shields, but their feats, sacrifices, and contributions to the common cause of fighting for Ukraine will live on forever, just as the names engraved on the Memorial plaques will. The warriors have gone to eternity but will always remain in the memory of the entire Ukrainian people. They will serve as a guiding example for future generations with a call — to achieve the goal or die with glory: “Aut cum scuto, aut in scuto — either with the shield or on the shield!” — emphasized Kyrylo Budanov.

The head of the GUR expressed gratitude to the creators of the Memorial for Ukrainian intelligence officers and the patrons, Volodymyr and Olena Besah, whose efforts made this space possible.

Sergiy Chub, the father of Hero of Ukraine (posthumously) Lieutenant Oleksandr Chub, an officer of the GUR who died in combat in Sievierodonetsk, addressed the attendees. His words served as a reminder of the price of freedom that Ukrainians pay daily.

 The Memorial will become a site for honoring fallen intelligence officers and an integral part of military rituals of the GUR of Ukraine.

 Eternal memory and glory to military intelligence officers!
 Glory to Ukraine!