Greetings from the Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council of Ukraine Oleksandr Turchynov on the occasion of the Day of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

I sincerely congratulate active duty military personnel and veterans of the Navy with a professional holiday!

Ukraine has been a powerful naval state for a long time - the history of her fleet originates from the times of Kiev Rus and Zaporizhzhya Sich. This year we celebrated the 100th anniversary of the remarkable event, when the ships of the Black Sea Fleet raised Ukrainian flags and went under the jurisdiction of the UNR.

Sailors, who remained loyal to their oath during the military aggression of the Russian Federation in the Crimea and continued performing their duties with honour, side by side with other units of the Armed Forces, have prevented the implementation of the Kremlin's plans to destroy independent Ukraine.

 Despite the great losses after Russian aggression, the maritime industry and the Navy are rebuilding their capacity. Today, in fact, the national fleet is reborn at new basing sites and locations on the continental part of Ukraine.

The Naval Forces continue to carry out combat duty to protect both the seaside and the north-western part of the Black Sea in their area of ​​responsibility. In particular, the Serpent Island protection tasks are carried out.

 We are proud of the heroes-seamen and marines, who take part in the Operation of the Joint Forces in the east of Ukraine, protect the south-eastern borders and sea boundaries. 

 We bow our heads in memory of the perished heroes! During the conduct of the ATO/OJF, 51 seamen of the Navy were killed, 488 were injured. 498 seamen were awarded state honours, 1515 - decorations of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, 1385 - of the General Staff.

 Today, one of the greatest national priorities is the further strengthening of the security and defence sector. The state is making efforts to restore and modernize the combat core of the fleet in accordance with NATO standards. We are to build modern, rapid and innovative Navy, capable of defending the people of Ukraine and her national interests in the marine and coastal environment through asymmetric and decisive operations, with well-motivated, professional personnel, intent to victory.

 May the Lord protect you and your families!

 Happy Holiday!