Dear colleagues, combat sworn brothers!

Twenty four years ago, after the gaining of independence, in difficult conditions Ukraine began the process of creation of their Ukrainian Armed Forces.

The events connected with aggressive actions of Russian Federation – annexation of the Crimea, the beginning of military conflict on Donbas where nowadays is resolving the fortune of not only Ukraine but the whole Europe, – confirmed that our Armed Forces didn’t conform to modern requirements. Today than ever before, the expression of General of the Army of Ukrainian People’s Republic Mark Bezruchko: “Powerful army – is the right of existence of nation” has become an actual. Present challenges and threats demanded an immediate process of rearrangement of the Armed Forces.

At present time, the renovation of our forces is going on. Due to incredible efforts of Ukrainian people, powerful volunteer movement, the support of the President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko, all innovative reforms Ukraine creates modern powerful army equipped by up-to-date weapons and military equipment; army that corresponds to NATO standards and that is already capable to repulse.

By tradition, this day we remember and honour our compatriots who courageously defended Ukrainian land in different years. Today, intelligence officers are worthy successors of their glorious heroic traditions, and the motto “Ukraine is above all” for them – not simply words.

On the occasion of the Day of the Armed Forces of Ukraine I sincerely wish you an indestructible faith in Victory, peace, harmony, good health, happiness and new achievements!

Glory to Ukraine!