On October 5, 2025, Ukraine celebrates Territorial Defense Day. The holiday was established by the President of Ukraine's decree “On Territorial Defense Day of Ukraine” dated September 30, 2020, recognizing the significance of territorial defense in ensuring the country's defense capability, and is observed 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 showcased the best qualities of the Ukrainian spirit since the onset of the full-scale war.
«Today we honor the brave Ukrainians who took up arms in the most decisive moments of our history and stood to defend Ukraine. From the very first days of the full-scale war, the soldiers of the Territorial Defense have demonstrated exceptional courage, dedication, and resilience», - stated Shmyhal.
He emphasized that today Ukraine expresses gratitude to the Territorial Defense fighters for their crucial contribution to protecting our people and shared homeland.
«Eternal memory to the heroes of the Territorial Defense who gave their lives for the freedom of Ukraine and its citizens. Glory to everyone defending Ukraine!», - stressed Shmyhal.
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Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk, on the occasion of Territorial Defense Day, highlighted that the Territorial Defense represents the symbol of Ukrainians' readiness to protect their land at all times.
«Territorial Defense is a symbol of readiness for Ukrainians to defend their land everywhere and always. From the first days of the full-scale invasion by Russia, thousands of men and women in the Territorial Defense forces stood to protect Ukrainian cities and villages, stopping the enemy where they tried to break through, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and defending people from sabotage and strikes», - noted Stefanchuk.
«Thank you to everyone serving in the Territorial Defense. Your determination and willingness to defend 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 life for freedom», - emphasized Stefanchuk.
