A national memorial honoring Ukraine's military intelligence officers has been unveiled in Kyiv. The memorial commemorates the personnel of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, as well as foreign volunteers, who gave their lives in the fight for Ukraine's independence.
At the center of the composition is the Latin word Aeternitas — "Eternity" — inscribed in multiple world languages. This symbolizes the international character of the struggle: volunteers from over 50 countries serve alongside Ukrainians in military intelligence.
The two sculpted stelae represent wings and shields, symbolizing movement, resilience, and relentless resistance. Between them is a silent space where the names of fallen intelligence officers are engraved.
Above, the memorial's structure resembles an owl's eye — a universal symbol of vigilance, protection, and an unseen presence.
The memorial was consecrated by His Beatitude Epiphanius, Metropolitan of Kyiv and All Ukraine, Primate of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine.
"Each fallen intelligence officer made the ultimate sacrifice — giving their life for others, for Ukraine. This is not only a military feat but a spiritual one. Remember: the Lord is present wherever people are willing to give themselves out of love. The memorial we bless today is a sign of such sacrificial love and of the unbreakable spirit that guides us to victory over evil," said Metropolitan Epiphanius.
The memorial was created by renowned sculptor Nazar Bilyk, who is known for the monument to the Heavenly Hundred Heroes in Lviv. Speaking about the new memorial, Bilyk said:
"This memorial is about dignity and silent dialogue. We wanted to create a space where the presence of those who will not return can still be felt. It speaks through silence — in which strength is heard."
The ceremony included a minute of silence, a military salute, and flowers laid by DIU officers and families of the fallen. DIU Chief Kyrylo Budanov honored the memory of his comrades:
"Too many of our intelligence officers, tragically, returned home on their shield. But their courage, sacrifice, and contribution to our fight for Ukraine will live on forever — like their names engraved in stone. These warriors have passed into eternity, but they will remain in the hearts of the Ukrainian people. Their legacy will guide future generations with a call to action: 'Aut cum scuto, aut in scuto — either with the shield or on it!'"
General Budanov expressed gratitude to the memorial's creators and patrons, Volodymyr and Olena Besaha, whose support helped make the site a reality.
Serhii Chub, father of Hero of Ukraine Lt. Oleksandr Chub, a DIU officer who was killed in the battle for Sievierodonetsk, also spoke. His words were a powerful reminder of the daily price Ukrainians pay for freedom.
The memorial will serve as a site for remembrance and become an integral part of DIU's military rituals and traditions.
Eternal glory to the warriors of Ukraine's military intelligence.
Glory to Ukraine!
