Zelensky hands out awards to employees of Ukraine's cyber watchdog

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has attended events to mark the Day of Ukraine's State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection (SSSCIP).

That's according to the press service of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Ukrinform reports.

The head of state congratulated all communications specialists on their professional holiday and thanked them for their daily important work for the country and people.

"Today, it is important, first of all, to thank you. Each and every person who provides reliable communications for our people, Ukraine, our defense – all Ukrainians. Those who protect communication lines, restore damaged communications, and protect the cyberspace of our country. All this literally connects Ukrainians, allows our soldiers, Ukraine to be effective in defense, and our people to simply understand what is happening and to hear and see their loved ones," Zelensky said.

The attendees observed a moment of silence for the fallen SSSCIP employees and all Ukrainians whose lives were taken by the Russian aggressor during this brutal war.

The president also noted the important work of the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection in protecting Ukrainian cyberspace.

"The work of the special communications service is complex. And it is not only communication as such. I remember your work in the first days of the full-scale invasion, aimed at preventing the enemy from affecting our cyberspace in any way. I understand for sure that you are doing everything possible in the field of electronic intelligence," Zelensky said.

The head of state also praised the project to create an army of drones.

"The goal of a drone army is really ambitious. I want to thank you for your comprehensive work. And I want to wish you only victory. I think this is the most important thing," he said.

The president also wished good health to the families and friends of the communications specialists.

On the occasion of the Day of Ukraine's State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection, Zelensky presented state awards, including medals "For Impeccable Service" of the III degree, "For Military Service to Ukraine" and "To the Defender of the Homeland."

In addition, Zelensky got himself acquainted with modern digital means, in particular, those designed to provide secure communication for the highest state officials in field command centers, a mobile radio monitoring complex, components of the electronic warfare system and system of countering high-precision weapons.

The head of state also observed the technical characteristics of strike and reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicles, the vast majority of which are of domestic production.

Zelensky heard a report from Yuriy Shchyhol, Head of the SSSCIP, on the prospects for the development of the service.