On August 29, the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of Estonia held a commemorative event dedicated to the Day of Remembrance of the Defenders of Ukraine who gave their lives in the struggle for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of our state.

The event was attended by the staff of the Embassy and representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora. All those present honored the memory of the fallen defenders of Ukraine and the civilians who lost their lives as a result of russian aggression with a moment of silence.

Chargé d'Affaires ad interim of Ukraine to the Republic of Estonia Inna Shcherban, in her remarks, noted: «Today, on the Day of Remembrance of the Defenders of Ukraine, we honor the memory of all our fallen warriors – both men and women – who gave the most precious gift, their lives, for our state, for an independent Ukraine.

This year, this day carries an especially bitter and tragic meaning. Yesterday, Russia carried out yet another barbaric strike - deliberately targeting the civilian population of the Ukrainian capital. This is further evidence that the aggressor’s goal is not only to seize Ukrainian land, but also to destroy lives, to destroy our people, despite all the peaceful efforts of the civilized world.

In connection with this tragedy, a Day of Mourning has been declared in Ukraine. Today, we honor not only our fallen defenders, but also the innocent civilians whose lives have been taken by the war.»

The National Anthem of Ukraine and the spiritual anthem of the Ukrainian people, the majestic «Prayer for Ukraine», were performed by opera singer Ms. Karina Amirkhanyan-Chervinko, Master of the Donetsk Music Academy, laureate of international competitions, and music teacher at the Ukrainian Sunday School «Nadiya».

Equally moving was the recitation of Serhiy Zhadan’s poem «Now I Will Be Your Eyes» performed by Liza Tarasevych.

Together with Father Roman, priest of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church in Tallinn, all those present offered prayers for the souls of the fallen heroes and the innocent victims of the war.

We will always remember their sacrifice, for it is thanks to the courage and strength of our defenders that Ukraine continues to live and to fight. Eternal glory to the Heroes!