Ukraine honors the memory of the millions whose lives were destroyed and cut short during the Holodomors — one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th century. The Holodomor of 1932–1933 was a deliberate act of genocide aimed at suppressing the Ukrainian nation, its will, and its identity. Today, as Ukraine once again fights for its right to exist, this day reminds us of the price of freedom and the fact that the totalitarian regime that orchestrated the Holodomor is the predecessor of today’s Russian aggression. The attempt to destroy Ukrainians continues in new forms — through war, devastation, and terror against civilians.

November 21 marks a day that forever changed the trajectory of Ukraine’s history. A day when millions of citizens stood up to defend their dignity and freedom — our European path. The Revolution of Dignity and the Orange Revolution revealed the strength of the Ukrainian spirit, our ability to unite in decisive moments, and our responsibility for our state. Today, this strength is evident both at the front and in the rear — in the daily struggle against Russian aggression. Ukrainian soldiers are defending the very values for which people stood on the Maidan: freedom, the right to be masters of our own land, and a future that we build with our own hands.

Today we express our sincere respect to the warriors who are able to maintain order in battle and inspire confidence in their units by personal example. To those who remain steadfast in the most challenging moments, make well-considered decisions under pressure, and carry the responsibility for their people and for Ukraine with dignity. The Non-Commissioned Officer Corps is a pillar of our modern Armed Forces. Sergeants shape discipline, fighting spirit, and the inner strength of units. You are the first to face challenges and remain worthy of your rank in any circumstances.

The financial system of the army is a strategic backbone that ensures the stability and combat readiness of the Armed Forces. Thanks to military financial officers, the Armed Forces of Ukraine receive the resources needed for operations, our service members receive proper social support, and the state earns the trust of its citizens and international partners. Your work sustains the combat capability of our troops and strengthens their resilience in the most challenging times. You transform financial resources into real opportunities that empower the army and uphold its endurance.

In wartime, your work has strategic significance. It may not always be visible, yet no operation and no success on the battlefield is possible without it. You transform resources into combat power and make it possible for the Army to operate effectively under any conditions. The National Defence University of Ukraine takes pride in training officers who understand that modern armed forces cannot exist without reliable logistics. Your professionalism and dedication allow the Armed Forces of Ukraine to act according to the highest standards and to maintain their endurance even under the most difficult circumstances.

In times of war, law has become a weapon that protects no less than armour. It guarantees justice, strengthens trust in the Army, and helps our soldiers remain steadfast. Military lawyers fulfil a unique mission. You ensure compliance with international humanitarian law, protect the rights of service members, and provide commanders with confidence in their decisions. Thanks to you, Ukraine demonstrates to the whole world that it remains a state governed by the rule of law, even in the most difficult trials. A special role in this process belongs to the National Defence University of Ukraine. Here a new generation of military lawyers is formed — officers for whom law and justice are not only a profession, but also a calling. Within the walls of the University, specialists are trained who can strengthen the Army through law and protect every soldier with legal knowledge and principles.

The Territorial Defence is living proof that Ukrainians are ready to defend every meter of their land. It is not just military units — it is a community of people who have taken upon themselves the duty to be the shield of the country, their families, and the future. Every day, the soldiers of the Territorial Defence prove that the enemy will not pass where there is determination and unity. This strength will help us endure, overcome, and bring closer the day when the word peace once again becomes natural for Ukraine.

In times of war, education is not only about knowledge. It is the foundation of our defence capability, our intellectual shield. It gives the Armed Forces the strength to think strategically, to make bold decisions, and to confidently lead the country to victory. A special role in this belongs to the National Defence University of Ukraine. Here, the officer elite is shaped — commanders, leaders, and analysts who combine professionalism with resilience. Every lecture, every class, every word of a teacher becomes a building block in the foundation of Ukraine’s future success. Dear educators! Your work is a mission and a calling. You nurture the strength of mind and character, you provide the Army with knowledge that turns into decisive actions.

The Feast of the Intercession of the Most Holy Mother of God, Ukrainian Cossack Day and the Day of Defenders of Ukraine — all celebrated on this date — remind us that the strength of our nation lies in unity, sacrifice and unwavering faith in freedom. We honour the memory of fallen heroes and heroines and express our profound gratitude to those who are currently standing in defence of Ukraine’s independence. Their sacrifice is our moral compass on the road to Victory. Today, the National Defence University of Ukraine serves as a strategic stronghold of knowledge and leadership. It is here that commanders and analysts are shaped — professionals capable of leading troops, making strategic decisions and defining the future of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

The National Defence University of Ukraine continues to modernize its educational and research environment. Meta Quest 3 virtual reality headsets are being integrated into the learning process, opening new opportunities for training, research, and psychological support for service members. The acquisition of modern VR sets became possible thanks to the support of the Norwegian charitable foundation "HMM Helsehjelp Ukraina", which generously donated ten VR headsets to the National Defence University of Ukraine. This is yet another example of how international cooperation contributes to the introduction of cutting-edge technologies into the training system of Ukraine’s defenders. The university leadership extends its sincere gratitude to "HMM Helsehjelp Ukraina" for supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine and, in particular, higher military educational institutions.

Today, we honour those who stand at the forefront of protecting the lives and health of service members, preserving the combat readiness of units, and shielding the country from the most dangerous threats. Your professionalism, courage, and readiness to act in the most challenging conditions make you an indispensable part of Ukraine’s defence capability. You not only master specialised equipment but also continuously improve your knowledge and skills, work with the latest technologies, and implement modern safety standards. Thanks to you, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have a reliable shield against radiation, chemical, and biological threats. The National Defence University of Ukraine trains officers who understand the importance of this profession, can operate in extreme conditions, and are capable of acting effectively in modern operations.

Dear tank warriors! Your weapons are armour, speed, and precision. The Tank Troops have always been and remain the backbone of the offensive power of the Ukrainian Army. Today you not only carry on the legendary traditions of your predecessors but also create a new history of modern battle — a history where determination, engineering skill, and courage intertwine with the latest technologies. A tank is not just a machine — it is a symbol of breakthrough, protection, and forward movement. It is you, warriors of steel, who open the way for our troops, cover the infantry, and change the course of battle.

Today, we celebrate the professional holiday of those who wield the “invisible shield” of the modern army — the Electronic Warfare specialists of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Your professionalism ensures information superiority, protects the troops from threats, and enables the effective accomplishment of combat missions. Electronic warfare is the forward line in the struggle for technological advantage, which defines success on the modern battlefield. At the National Defence University of Ukraine, a new generation of officers and electronic warfare specialists is being trained — professionals capable of meeting today’s challenges. You combine knowledge, technology, and determination to give the Armed Forces of Ukraine an advantage in modern warfare

The Day of Military Intelligence of Ukraine is a recognition of the strength of those who are the first to see danger and the first to open the path to Victory. Intelligence is the eyes and mind of the army — its foresight and protection. It is thanks to you that our defenders know where to expect a strike, how to act, and how to return alive. Today, Ukraine’s military intelligence is a synthesis of experience and cutting-edge technologies, analysis and courage, traditions and modern combat thinking. Your decisions shape the fate of the country every single day. The National Defence University of Ukraine is proud to train specialists for military intelligence across all branches and types of the Armed Forces. We clearly understand that the knowledge, skills, and spirit of these people determine not only the course of battle but also the security of the state as a whole.

At the National Defence University of Ukraine, the exhibition “A Medieval Person through the Prism of Sophia Graffiti” was solemnly opened, showcasing more than 7,000 inscriptions and drawings from the 11th ​​​​​​​to 18th centuries preserved on the walls of Saint Sophia Cathedral. These unique testimonies of the past reflect the daily life, spiritual quests, and aspirations of the ancient people of Kyiv, affirming the continuity of Ukrainian culture and historical memory.