Today, December 18, Ukraine celebrates Military Counterintelligence Day and International Migrants Day. It is also the day when the Orthodox calendar honors the memory of Saint Sebastian and his wife. The 'Glavkom' magazine tells about the holidays, history, traditions, and signs of this day.
Holidays in Ukraine
Military Counterintelligence Day of Ukraine
Military Counterintelligence Day of the Security Service of Ukraine is an important event celebrated annually on December 18. This day honors the dedication and courage of military counterintelligence officers who play a significant role in the national security and defense of the country.
International and National Holidays
International Migrants Day
This holiday was established by the UN in 2000 to support the rights of migrants and recognize their contributions to the development of both their home and host countries.
International Arab Language Day
Since 2012, Arab Language Day has been celebrated to honor its status as an official UN language.
Religious Holidays and Their History
Saint Sebastian and His Wife's Feast Day
The Orthodox Church commemorates Saint Sebastian and his wife, who symbolizes courage and faithfulness.
Folk Beliefs and Signs
According to folk beliefs, on December 18, certain signs can be observed that predict the weather and harvest in the future.
Historical Events
- 1104 - Nicéphore I governed the Kyiv Metropolis;
- 1865 - slavery was abolished in the USA;
- 1890 - the first underground electrified railway was opened;
- 1917 - the recognition of Finland's independence began;
- 1917 - the Ukrainian State Academy of Arts was opened;
- 1920 - a resolution on the accounting of musical instruments in the USSR was adopted;
- 1940 - the plan for the German attack on the USSR was approved;
- 1958 - the first voice transmission via satellite was conducted;
- 1972 - bombing of North Vietnam was ordered;
- 1991 - Armenia recognized the independence of Ukraine;
- 1998 - impeachment of President Bill Clinton was initiated;
- 2007 - Yulia Tymoshenko became the Prime Minister of Ukraine;
- 2008 - speculation in the currency market of Ukraine reached its peak;
- 2016 - PrivatBank was nationalized.
Name Day
Today, the following name days are celebrated: Sebastian, Victor, Michael, Vladimir, Ilya, Mark.
Ukraine celebrates Military Counterintelligence Day and honors Saint Sebastian, whose memory symbolizes courage and devotion. International Migrants Day highlights the rights and contributions of migrants to development. December 18 is filled with various holidays, historical events, and folk signs that add a unique color and significance to this day.