Today, November 9, 2026, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky awarded state honors to the servicemen of the Armed Forces' Air Assault Troops, emphasizing their heroism and vital role in defending Ukraine's independence.
Heroism of Paratroopers Since 2014
The Air Assault Troops of Ukraine have shown heroism since the beginning of the Russian aggression in 2014. They participated in numerous operations, including:
- Operations in Sloviansk, Kramatorsk, Shakhtarsk, Debaltseve, Lyman, and at Savur-Mohyla;
- Fights in the Donetsk and Luhansk airports;
- Raiding operations in the enemy's rear.
After the start of the full-scale aggression, Ukrainian paratroopers became the backbone of our defense, participating in the defense of Kyiv, the defense of Mykolaiv, and in the most challenging battles in Donetsk and Kharkiv.
Operations of 2024 and Their Results
In 2024, the Air Assault Troops conducted the significant Kursk operation, which first transferred combat actions to Russian territory. This year, the paratroopers also successfully executed an offensive operation in the Oleksandrivka direction, resulting in Ukraine regaining over 800 square kilometers of territory.
Awarding and Recognition
Today, President Zelensky awarded state honors to the paratroopers and presented the battle flag to the military units of the Air Assault Troops. He expressed gratitude for their courage and dedication, noting that these achievements are important chapters in the history of the war for Ukraine's independence.