Zelensky signs decree to present state awards to 48 defenders of Ukraine

According to Ukrinform, the head of state said this in a video address.

"Traditionally in the evening, I signed a decree to present awards to our heroes. State awards were presented to 48 defenders of Ukraine for their courage in hostilities, for the exemplary performance of their military duty," Zelensky said.

He also called on Ukrainians to be united in countering the Russian invasion.

"I emphasize once again that everyone should oppose the occupation at every opportunity. Ignore the occupiers. Do not cooperate with them. Do not help them. Neutralize collaborators. The Armed Forces of Ukraine are brilliantly performing their tasks," Zelensky said.

He stressed that intelligence, the National Guard, the Defense Forces, the police, and border guards are all working to win, but all citizens should also work to win no matter what they do and where they stay.

"If you are abroad, support Ukraine. If you are engaged in ordinary economic activities, do everything to benefit Ukraine as much as possible. If you stay in the temporarily occupied territory, and I understand how difficult it is, but try to create as many problems for the occupiers as possible," Zelensky said.

He stressed that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are "our foundation, but it should always be a fortress of national unity of all Ukrainians who are fighting for life and against death, against the Russian invasion."