Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine honoured the fallen soldiers of the National Guard of Ukraine as well as MPs and employees of the Verkhovna Rada Secretariat who laid their lives for the freedom of Ukraine
26 March 2025, 12:52
On 26 March, a ceremony to honour the memory of the fallen servicemen of the National Guard of Ukraine who gave their lives in the line of duty, as well as MPs and employees of the Parliament's Secretariat who died defending Ukraine, was held at the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.
The ceremony paid tribute to four Guardsmen - Ihor Debrin, Dmytro Slastnikov, Oleksandr Kostyna and Bohdan Datsiuk - fallen on 31 August 2015 while protecting public order near the Parliament building. Also, the memory of all the soldiers of the National Guard of Ukraine who died at the frontline defending the state, MPs of Ukraine and employees of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine who laid down their lives for the freedom and independence of Ukraine was honoured.
In his turn, First Deputy Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Oleksandr Kornienko added. «The National Guard of Ukraine has always demonstrated high professionalism and readiness to meet all challenges. You are always where you are needed - protecting Ukrainians and your country.»
Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Olena Kondratyuk emphasised: «The restored National Guard was formed in 2014 after the Revolution of Dignity and in response to russian aggression. Many volunteers and Maidan participants joined its ranks. Since the first days of russia's full-scale invasion, the National Guard has been defending Ukraine from russian occupiers and protecting civilians side by side with their colleagues from the defence forces. They act with honour and courage, which is the motto of the National Guard. May all the soldiers of the National Guard who have fallen for Ukraine rest in peace.»
The National Guard of Ukraine remains at the forefront of the fight for independence, carrying out combat tasks in the most difficult areas. To date, more than 11,000 Guardsmen have been awarded state decorations for courage and heroism. Honouring the memory of the fallen is not only a gesture of respect, but also a reminder of the price of freedom that Ukraine is fighting for.