During a working trip to Kharkiv region, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the frontline command post of the defenders of Kupyansk and presented state awards.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov listened to a report by Commander of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Commander of the Khortytsia operational and strategic grouping of troops Oleksandr Syrskyi on the operational situation in his area of responsibility. The plan for further actions of the military units was clarified, in particular, the defense of the Kupyansk – Lyman line.
In addition, information was provided by the commander of the Kupyansk tactical group, Oleksandr Lutsenko, and the commander of the 57th separate motorized infantry brigade named after Kish Ataman Kost Hordiienko, Oleksandr Bakulin.
The most vital needs of the defenders were also discussed: electronic warfare equipment, drones, protection against enemy UAVs and the construction of fortifications.
The President presented awards to five servicemen and handed over 18 awards for presentation at the place of service. In particular, Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded the Presidential Cross of Military Merit to Colonel Oleksandr Bakulin, Colonel Pavlo Palisa and Major Andriy Matskal.
"Here are the commanders of brigades and battalions, combat commanders who are protecting peaceful life in Ukraine, in Kharkiv region, in the Kupyansk sector... I know that you lose your close people and brothers-in-arms every day. Everyone understands that this is the highest price. Please, take care of yourselves, take care of your fellow soldiers, officers who are fighting alongside you every day. I wish you victory, to be strong, to keep up the momentum, to defend Kharkiv region, Kupyansk, every village, every square meter of our land," the Head of State said.
