On behalf of the Riigikogu, the Speaker of the Estonian Parliament, Lauri Hussar, received the World Congress of Ukrainians' Saint Volodymyr Medal from the hands of the Chair of the Congress of Ukrainians in Estonia, Vira Konyk.

During his speech, Ambassador Maksym Kononenko expressed his gratitude to the Riigikogu for its unwavering active support of Ukraine and the leadership role of Estonian parliamentarians in making important decisions to support Ukraine in its fight against Russian armed aggression, which serves as an example for the parliaments of other countries.

"Estonia has always supported us: in peacetime – on the path to European integration and NATO membership, in the effort to restore historical memory about the Holodomors and achieve justice, in protecting and promoting our native language and culture. In wartime, Estonia is a leader in defense, humanitarian, and financial assistance to Ukraine per capita. Ukraine feels this support constantly. It does not change due to geopolitical realities and political fluctuations. And this is very valuable.

We must thank for such support. We must not tire of expressing words of gratitude, just as Estonians do not tire of supporting Ukraine with their words and actions for two and a half years of full-scale war. Awarding the Estonian Parliament with the Saint Volodymyr Medal is one of the many gestures of gratitude we have already made and will make to thank Estonia for this solid and unwavering support!" the Ambassador noted.

In turn, the Speaker of the Riigikogu, Lauri Hussar, emphasized that Estonia will continue to support Ukraine in its fight against the Russian aggressor and the restoration of our state's territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. Estonia will also provide comprehensive assistance to our country.

The Chair of the Congress of Ukrainians in Estonia, Vira Konyk, noted that the Saint Volodymyr Medal is usually awarded to individuals, and awarding this honor to a state institution is one of the rare occasions in the history of the World Congress of Ukrainians. It is a token of gratitude from the global Ukrainian community for Ukraine's sincere and constant support.