President Meets Naval Forces in Odesa Ahead of Navy Day
On July 4, 2026, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveled to Odesa for a working visit, where he met with Ukrainian Navy personnel, presented awards, and unveiled plans for a new minesweeper brigade and a Naval Academy. The event took place just before Navy Day, underscoring the growing importance of maritime defense in Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia. During the ceremony, Zelenskyy declared that Russia had lost the Black Sea, citing key Ukrainian victories and operations.
Twenty-five service members received state honors, including:
- the 'Cross of Combat Merit' award;
- the Order of Bohdan Khmelnytsky, III class;
- the Order 'For Courage,' II–III classes;
- the Order of Danylo of Halych;
- medals 'For Military Service to Ukraine.'
Zelenskyy also presented a battle flag to the 12th Landing Craft Brigade of the Navy Flotilla, along with 'For Courage and Bravery' ribbons to the 65th and 68th separate coastal missile divisions of the 360th separate coastal missile brigade.
New Brigade and Academy to Boost Naval Capabilities
The president signed a decree establishing a Naval Academy in Odesa, aimed at enhancing training for future naval officers. He also announced the creation of a new minesweeper brigade, emphasizing the need to strengthen Ukraine's naval forces. This move reflects a strategic push to modernize and expand the navy amid ongoing hostilities.
During the event, Zelenskyy spoke with children of Navy personnel who won the annual 'Trident Over the Waves' contest, held to celebrate Navy Day.
“Russia has lost the Black Sea. Starting with the liberation of Snake Island and continuing with our operations against the Russian fleet, Russian ports, and occupation forces in our Ukrainian Crimea, we are proving that this space—the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov—will never be a place of peace for Russia.” — Volodymyr Zelenskyy
The president highlighted that Ukraine’s marine corps is now the largest and most experienced in Europe. He noted, 'I know our Navy has this need, there is the capability, and most importantly, there is the desire among our cadets and young people to serve and defend Ukraine.' Zelenskyy stressed the importance of passing practical combat experience to the next generation of service members.
The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence to honor fallen Ukrainians. Children who won the contest presented the president with a painting symbolizing Ukraine’s victory.
This event underscores the expanding role of Ukraine's Navy in the ongoing war with Russia and highlights the need for fresh talent. The establishment of the Naval Academy and the new minesweeper brigade signals long-term planning and investment in national defense. Zelenskyy’s statement about Russia’s defeat in the Black Sea serves as a confident assertion of Ukraine’s military strength and its determination to maintain control over the region.
As Ukraine continues to bolster its maritime defense, the recent announcement of a new Naval Academy and minesweeper brigade is part of a broader strategy to enhance national security. This initiative aligns with President Zelenskyy's recent directive to accelerate the production of domestic ballistic missiles, emphasizing the government's commitment to strengthening military capabilities in the face of ongoing threats. For more details on this significant development, see how the president is prioritizing missile production to reinforce Ukraine's defense.