Prime Minister took part in events on the occasion of the Day of Ukrainian Statehood

On the occasion of the Day of Ukrainian Statehood and the Day of the Baptism of Kyivan Rus-Ukraine, solemn events were held in Kyiv with the participation of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The events were also attended by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk, Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak, leadership of the Security and Defence Forces, leaders of Ukrainian churches, religious organisations, chaplains, and foreign diplomats.

According to the Prime Minister, the Day of Ukrainian Statehood and the Day of the Baptism of Kyivan Rus-Ukraine are closely intertwined, symbolising the thousand-year history of the creation of our state.

“The history of Ukraine’s formation began with the unification of the state by Volodymyr the Great. The idea of uniting into a strong, distinctive and prosperous state has united our ancestors for centuries,” said Denys Shmyhal.

The officials took part in a prayer event at the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra. The holy fathers prayed for victory and a just peace for Ukraine, as well as for protection and blessings for the Ukrainian people and soldiers.

On the territory of St Sophia Cathedral, the President of Ukraine presented state awards to the military and other professions and handed out passports to Ukrainians who turned 14, including children of defenders, volunteers and contest winners.

A minute’s silence was observed in memory of all those who gave their lives for Ukraine.