President Volodymyr Zelensky has awarded 16 Ukrainian cities the honorary title of 'Hero City of Ukraine' on the occasion of Defender's Day and the feast of the Protection of the Holy Virgin. This decision expands the list of cities honored for their significant contributions in the fight against Russian aggression. The president emphasized that this holiday is a wonderful opportunity to honor the communities and individuals who bore the greatest responsibility for the defense of the country.
"Today, on this Defender's Day, on Protection Day, we honor yet more hero cities - cities of heroes. I have signed an order. Cities that have saved thousands of our people’s lives. Cities that are defending our entire state - in every sense of these words," stated Volodymyr Zelensky.
Hero cities in different regions of Ukraine
In Dnipropetrovsk region, the title was awarded to Pavlohrad, Nikopol, and Marhanets. In Donetsk region, five cities were recognized: Druzhkivka, Kramatorsk, Kostiantynivka, Pokrovsk, and Sloviansk. In Zaporizhia - Huliaipole and Orikhiv, and in Mykolaiv region - Voznesensk and Bashtanka. In Sumy region, the cities awarded this honor are Sumy and Trostianets.
Additionally, the honor was awarded to Kupiansk in Kharkiv region and Starokostiantyniv in Khmelnytskyi region.
Expression of gratitude from the president
Zelensky emphasized that the strength of every citizen is the strength of the whole country, and heroism begins with the courage of each heart. Addressing the defenders, he noted that the existence of Ukraine is the result of the persistent struggle and courage of its people.
The ceremonial awarding of the honorary title 'Hero City of Ukraine' to 16 cities is an important recognition of their role in defending the country and an honor to local heroes who have given special attention to the defense of their communities.