During a working trip to Donetsk region, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine of the Khortytsia operational and strategic group of troops that distinguished themselves in fierce battles in the Bakhmut direction.
Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of the Khortytsia operational and strategic group of troops, reported to the Head of State on the detailed operational situation in this area and the prospects for its development.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also spoke with the servicemen and presented them with state awards.
"Dear heroes, I am honored to be here today and, first of all, to thank you for protecting our state, sovereignty, our families, children, and our native Ukraine. I would like to thank you, award you all and shake hands with great gratitude to you, your families, your parents for the fact that we have such people," the Supreme Commander-in-Chief said, addressing the defenders of Ukraine.
The President wished the warriors health and necessarily – victory.
"Ukraine is proud of each of you. You are great and strong. You are our true Ukrainians. And everyone in the country who is not at the front is well aware that you are doing the most difficult job today. And everyone knows that the eastern direction is very difficult and hot. Therefore, I am confident that it is you who will make a great contribution to the future victory," Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.
In particular, the Head of State awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine and presented the Gold Star Order to Captain Oleh Olyva, commander of the airmobile company of the 81st separate airborne assault brigade, who, during the military service together with his subordinate personnel, skillfully destroyed dozens of enemy vehicles and more than a hundred enemy soldiers. After being wounded, the officer repeatedly refused to be hospitalized and stayed with his brothers-in-arms on the battlefield.
Today, Oleh Olyva celebrates his birthday. The President congratulated him on the holiday and thanked him for his service.
According to a good tradition, Volodymyr Zelenskyy stopped at a gas station in Donetsk region and had coffee with the military who were there. The President wished the soldiers health and good luck in battles.
