State awards presented to more than 2,500 special operations soldiers - Zelensky

Seventeen soldiers of the Special Operations Forces have been awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine, including 13 of them posthumously, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began. In total, 2,520 SOF soldiers received state awards.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said this in a daily video address, Ukrinform reports.

"Special Operations Forces mean such heroism about which it is impossible to tell the details. Only years later – such specifics of operations. The guys inflict particularly tangible blows on Russian terrorists. What we can talk about now, of course, is participation in key combat operations. Bakhmut in particular, Avdiivka, Krasnohorivka, Marinka. Soledar. Together with everyone, they defended Kyiv and Hostomel, and Bucha, and Irpin, and Moschun, and Makariv. Snake Island – also SOF together with intelligence, together with the Alpha group and the Navy. Kinburn Spit. Kherson," he said.

Zelensky clarified that he had the honor to personally congratulate and reward Special Operations Forces soldiers on their professional day in the Donetsk region.

"Let every loss of Russia be retribution for its evil, and let every occupier, every Russian murderer, all those responsible for this terror against Ukraine and Ukrainians know – while they are still alive – that justice wins. Ukraine will win! Thanks to everyone who brings our victory closer! Eternal memory to everyone who gave his life for the sake of Ukraine!" Zelensky added.

As part of his working trip to the Donetsk region, Zelensky visited a SOF unit where he took part in ceremonial events on the occasion of the Special Operations Forces Day. The head of state congratulated the soldiers and thanked them for their courage and resilience.

Ukraine marks Special Operations Forces Day on July 29.