Ukrainian Marines Brigade Receives Historic ‘Borysthenes’ Honorary Title from President Zelenskyy

Honorary Designation ‘Borysthenes’ Bestowed

According to Главком: On May 18, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed Decree No. 387/2026, granting the 34th Separate Marine Brigade the honorary title ‘Borysthenes.’ The decision aims to revive the historical traditions of the national armed forces and recognizes the unit’s exemplary performance in defending Ukraine’s territorial integrity and independence. The brigade’s official name will now be the 34th Separate Marine Brigade ‘Borysthenes’ of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Historical Roots and Combat Role

The name ‘Borysthenes’ comes from the ancient Greek designation for the Dnipro River, a term recorded as early as the time of Herodotus. Troops from the 34th Brigade were the first to confront Russian forces in the Kherson region in February 2022. They have since endured heavy battles to liberate the right bank, conducted operations on the left bank, and provided daily defense of the area.

Kherson Regional Military Administration Head Oleksandr Prokudin noted, ‘Then came the heavy battles for the liberation of the right bank, operations on the left bank, and the daily defense of the region.’

According to the General Staff, receiving this honorary title is ‘a high honor and recognition of the combat path, courage, and professionalism of the marines.’ U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also stated that the Armed Forces of Ukraine possess the strongest and most powerful military formations on the European continent. These developments underscore the significance of the 34th Separate Marine Brigade in Ukraine’s modern military history.

Bestowing the honorary name ‘Borysthenes’ on the 34th Separate Marine Brigade marks a key step in acknowledging the contributions of Ukrainian servicemen and women to national defense. It also highlights the historical importance of the Dnipro River, which holds deep roots in Ukrainian culture and history. As the situation in Ukraine, particularly on the front lines, remains critical, such recognitions can help boost the morale of both the troops and the broader society.