Metropolitan Epiphanius and Lieutenant General Kyrylo Budanov officially inaugurated a new Memorial in the capital of Ukraine dedicated to military intelligence officers.

This monument commemorates the fallen employees of the Main Intelligence Directorate and foreign volunteers who lost their lives defending Ukraine's independence.

The central feature of the Memorial is the word Aeternitas, meaning "Eternity," engraved in Latin and other languages, symbolizing the international support in the fight for freedom.

The two columns of the monument represent wings and shields, their active relief conveys motion and struggle, embodying resilience and unyielding spirit. Between the columns lies a silent space where the names of the fallen intelligence officers are inscribed.

From above, the composition resembles the eye of an owl, symbolizing vigilance and protection.

 The Memorial was consecrated by His Beatitude Metropolitan Epiphanius.

“Each of the fallen intelligence officers made the ultimate sacrifice — giving their lives for the sake of Ukraine. This is not just a military feat but a spiritual one. Remember that the Lord is with those willing to sacrifice themselves for others. The Memorial we consecrated today stands as a testament to this sacrificial love and the unwavering spirit leading us towards victory over evil,” said His Beatitude Epiphanius.

 The Memorial was designed by renowned sculptor Nazar Bilyk, who previously created the monument to the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred in Lviv.

“This memorial is about dignity and silent dialogue. We aimed to create a space that evokes the presence of those who will not return. The Memorial speaks of silence, where strength is heard,” noted Nazar Bilyk.

The memory of the fallen intelligence officers was honored with a moment of silence and a military salute. General Kyrylo Budanov, along with military intelligence personnel and relatives of the fallen, laid flowers at the Memorial.

“Many of our intelligence officers, unfortunately, returned on shields, but their feats, sacrifices, and contributions to the common cause of defending Ukraine will live on forever, just like the names engraved on the memorial plaques. The warriors have departed into eternity, but they will forever remain in the memory of the Ukrainian people. They will serve as a guiding light for future generations with the call to achieve their goals or die with honor: “Aut cum scuto, aut in scuto” — either with a shield or on a shield!” emphasized Kyrylo Budanov.

The Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate expressed gratitude to the creators of the Memorial and the patrons, Volodymyr and Olena Besaga, whose joint efforts made this space possible.

Serhiy Chub, the father of the Hero of Ukraine (posthumously), Lieutenant Oleksandr Chub, who died in the battles for Sievierodonetsk, addressed those present. His words served as a reminder of the price of freedom that Ukrainians pay daily.

 The Memorial will serve as a place of homage to the fallen intelligence officers and an integral part of the military rituals of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine.

 Eternal memory and glory to the military intelligence officers!
 Glory to Ukraine!