Zelenskyy, Syrskyi congratulate military on Ukraine's Territorial Defense Day

Zelenskyy shared his greetings on Facebook.

“Today is the Day of the Territorial Defense Forces, honoring the warriors and units that, together with all components of Ukraine’s Defense and Security Forces, protect our country and our people,” the president stated.

He noted that since the very first days of the full-scale war, thousands of fighters from the Territorial Defense Forces have demonstrated the best qualities of the Ukrainian character - courage and loyalty to Ukraine.

"The defense of the north: the capital, Chernihiv, Sumy. The defense of Kharkiv, battles in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, and in the south of our country.

We are proud of everyone who is truly resilient. We are grateful to all who destroy the enemy and fight for Ukraine to live. And we honor the memory of those who have fallen in the battles for Ukraine!" Zelenskyy emphasized.

Syrskyi also congratulated the soldiers on Facebook: "Dear combat brothers and sisters! I sincerely congratulate you on the Day of the Territorial Defense Forces of Ukraine,” the commander-in-chief wrote.

He recalled that at the start of the full-scale invasion by Russia, people of all ages, professions, and experiences took up arms. Farmers, teachers, businessmen, actors, journalists, builders, programmers, scientists, and many others joined the ranks of the Armed Forces’ Territorial Defense Forces to defend Ukraine.

He remarked that the Territorial Defense Forces immediately took action, confronting Russian forces on the outskirts of Kyiv, Chernihiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Kherson, and various other Ukrainian cities and villages from the very beginning.

"The heroism of the soldiers, sergeants, and officers of the Territorial Defense Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces will forever be etched in the memory of every Ukrainian. Eternal honor and glory to all the daughters and sons of our country who laid down their lives in the struggle for the freedom and independence of Ukraine. Fighters of the Territorial Defense Forces! I wish you good health, inspiration, endurance, strength of spirit, and unquenchable energy! We will win! Glory to the soldiers of the Territorial Defense Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine,” Syrskyi added.

• After the withdrawal from Vuhledar in the Donetsk region, which was reported on October 2, the 72nd Brigade continues to defend its position in the same direction.