Zelensky: Our strength today is based on strength of many Ukrainians who did not give up

The strength and fortitude of Ukrainians who are currently defending Ukraine are based on the fortitude of Ukrainians who defended common values and did not give up on this path, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said.

He said this in a video address on the occasion of the Heavenly Hundred Heroes Day, Ukrinform reports.

"Today we honor the heroes who gave their lives for Ukraine and Ukrainians during the Revolution of Dignity -- the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred. People of different ages and professions, different regions, but with the same and true values. This is respect for every person. Freedom and equality. Democracy. The openness of Ukraine to the world and the unity of our state with the whole of Europe. And this is definitely the independence of Ukraine. This is what motivated the Maidan to gather and defend itself. This is what motivates us now to fight and liberate our land. Defending Ukraine now, we remember that our strength and fortitude are based on the strength and fortitude of many Ukrainians who did not give up, who dreamed and acted for Ukraine to live. An independent, free and strong Ukraine, European and democratic, independent and integral," Zelensky said.

He added that Ukrainians know how to fight for and protect their freedom, and they always stand up for each other in times of need. "This is the basis of our unity and connection with the whole world," Zelensky said.

"And there is no doubt that we will protect all this, that we will realize the dream of Ukrainian heroes. Slaves are not allowed into heaven. This is the meaning of the Ukrainian interpretation of freedom. This is the reason why the enemy will not remain on our land," Zelensky said.

The Heavenly Hundred Heroes Day is marked every year on February 20 in accordance with the presidential decree of February 11, 2015 "On commemorating the feat of participants in the Revolution of Dignity and perpetuating the memory of the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred."

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine