Establishing a National Pantheon for Distinguished Ukrainians
Head of the Presidential Office, Kyrylo Budanov, has chaired a meeting to discuss the creation of a national Pantheon for the reburial of eminent Ukrainians currently interred abroad. He plans to submit the concept for this project to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for consideration in the near future. The meeting was attended by representatives from the leadership of the Verkhovna Rada, the government, academics, as well as members of the Ukrainian Institute of National Remembrance, civil society, and relevant organizations.
The core idea discussed was the repatriation of distinguished Ukrainians who dedicated their lives to the nation but remain buried on foreign soil. This initiative reflects a broader national effort to honor its historical legacy. Kyrylo Budanov stated:
"I chaired a crucial meeting involving leadership from the Verkhovna Rada, colleagues from the Presidential Office, scholars, civil society representatives, the Ukrainian Institute of National Remembrance, government officials, and specialized organizations. We discussed the idea of reburying on their native land those prominent Ukrainians who devoted their entire lives to Ukraine but still rest abroad."
Budanov further emphasized the importance of bringing home dozens and hundreds of individuals who fought for Ukraine, notable figures from various eras and professions. He noted that "many of them expressed a wish in their wills to be reburied in a free and independent Ukraine." Following the meeting, the Head of the Presidential Office issued necessary directives to accelerate the project, expressing confidence that even during wartime, the state will find the resources to establish the Pantheon. "In the near future, based on all discussions, I will submit our proposals and developments for the President's review," Budanov concluded.
Expanding Ukraine's Presence in Africa
In a separate initiative, Budanov also led an interagency coordination meeting focused on expanding Ukraine's presence in Africa. Participants included the Minister of Foreign Affairs, representatives from the Presidential Office, the Cabinet of Ministers, the Foreign Intelligence Service, and the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense, alongside Africa specialists. The discussions covered the current state of Ukraine's relations with African nations, prospects for development, and defined tasks to intensify Ukraine's activities in specific African countries.
The project to create a national Pantheon represents a significant step in restoring historical memory and providing dignified recognition for those who made substantial contributions to the country's development. It could also serve as a powerful symbol of unity and national identity, particularly amid the ongoing conflict. The parallel discussions on Africa underscore Ukraine's strategic aim to strengthen international ties and seek new avenues for cooperation on the global stage.