Andriy Danyk Meets with Journalists at the Scene
Andriy Danyk, head of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU), held a press briefing at the site of the destroyed main SESU building in the Kyiv region. He emphasized that the unit operates purely as a humanitarian agency, with no military personnel or defense equipment present on the premises. The building housed the operational coordination center, including a server room that supported the 101 emergency hotline and the 112 system. All emergency calls from residents across the region were routed through this facility.
Massive Attack and the Bravery of Rescuers
A large-scale attack struck the building on the night of May 24. At the time of the strike, duty shifts of specialists—mostly women—were inside. After the above-ground part of the structure was destroyed, dispatchers and communications staff were forced to relocate to a shelter. Yet they never halted their work for even a moment.
“Our specialists did not stop working for a single minute. Even from the basement, they continued taking calls because the number of requests from citizens in need of help was critically high due to the massive assault,” Andriy Danyk stated.
During the meeting, Danyk awarded the "For Courage in an Emergency" badges to employees from the Main Mobile Rescue Center for Rapid Response, as well as to specialists from the SESU directorates in the Kyiv region and the city of Kyiv.
“It is a great honor to work alongside those who, despite everything, hold their own front line. Your unity will help Ukraine get through all trials,” he added.
This event underscores the vital role of emergency workers during wartime, when their operations become crucial for public safety. Despite the destruction and ongoing threats, SESU personnel continue to fulfill their duties, demonstrating professional dedication and bravery in crisis situations. The awarding of these badges serves as recognition of their heroism and their essential role in sustaining society's functioning amid the conflict.
In a related instance of recognizing bravery, the head of the State Emergency Service recently honored the wife of a fallen rescuer with a posthumous award for courage. Such acts of recognition highlight the sacrifices made by emergency personnel during these challenging times. To learn more about this poignant tribute and its significance for the families of those who serve, read the full story here.