December 12 marks Ground Forces Day in Ukraine.

This day, established by the Presidential decree on October 18, 1997, is dedicated to recognizing the Ground Forces as the largest component of the Ukrainian Armed Forces that ensures the nation's defense capabilities.

We honor the mechanized, tank, and rocket troops, artillery, army aviation, air defense forces, and special units.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, emphasized that the Ground Forces are the frontline of Ukraine's defense.

“The Ground Forces are a combined force that integrates mechanized and tank units, artillery and rockets, army aviation, and air defense, alongside drones and special troops. Today, it represents a new quality army that stands firm for Ukraine,” Syrskyi noted in a social media post.

He stated that at the onset of the full-scale Russian invasion, it was the ground troops that formed the first line of defense against the aggressor.

“The Ukrainian infantry defended Kyiv, launched rapid offensives in the Slobozhanshchyna operation, liberated the right bank of Kherson, and defeated the Wagner Group in Bakhmut,” Syrskyi highlighted.

He pointed out that the Ground Forces are undergoing an unprecedented transformation on the battlefield.

“Unmanned aerial systems, ground drones, combat modules, and modern electronic warfare tools are the new daily reality for the Ground Forces of Ukraine. I am proud to be the commander of the strongest land army in Europe,” Syrskyi emphasized.

On this day, we honor every comrade who has given their life for Ukraine's freedom and independence against Russian invaders. Eternal memory and glory to the Heroes.

“Thank you to every soldier of the Ground Forces for serving the Ukrainian people, for your resilience and faith in our victory,” Syrskyi concluded.

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Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal noted in a Telegram message that this holiday is for those who courageously repel Russian assaults on all fronts while steadfastly holding the lines under enemy fire and bombardments.

“For Ukraine! For its freedom!” Under this slogan, the soldiers of the Ground Forces destroy the enemy every day, making them pay a high price for aggression against our state,” Shmyhal stressed.

He thanked every defender serving in the Ground Forces for their conscientious fulfillment of military duty and bravery. “Eternal memory to those who returned home on shields,” Shmyhal added.

“Glory to the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine! Glory to the Ukrainian military!” the Minister of Defense emphasized.