On Ukrainian Day of Heroes, UWC calls on Ukrainians worldwide to call out Russian disinformation

On May 23, 2024, the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) traditionally calls on Ukrainians internationally to mark the Day of Heroes – a date to honour all those who fought for the freedom and independence of Ukrainian lands throughout the centuries, from Ukrainian Cossacks to warriors of Ukrainian National Republic, from Ukrainian Insurgent Army to the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred. 

We also pray for our modern heroes – the brave men and women defending Ukraine against Russian brutal full-scale genocidal invasion and those who have been killed in battle.

“For more than half a century, the Day of Heroes has served as a symbolic date uniting generations of Ukrainian patriots, reminding us of the deep roots of Ukrainian statehood, helping us to preserve our Ukrainian identity and inspiring Ukrainians to serve their homeland in their struggle for its independence and freedom.

It also reminds us today: regardless where we live, we must do everything possible to support Ukraine in its struggle for sovereignty and independence against the homicidal Russian terrorist state,” stated UWC First Vice President Stefan Romaniw.

Since Putin’s rise to power as a dictator, Russia has weaponized history and culture. Russian state propaganda, disinformation, and deliberate distortion of objective facts are integral to the Russian Federation’s hybrid warfare arsenal in its war against Ukraine and the entire democratic world. 

Today, Russia is increasing its efforts to discredit Ukraine by endeavouring to defame its history and traditions. Russian state propaganda continuously brands Ukrainians and their national heroes as Nazis and labels the very idea of Ukraine’s historical struggle for independence a construct of the Nazi ideology.

“We call on all Ukrainians and Ukrainian communities around the world to counter and call out Russian heinous lies, propaganda and false historical narratives. Moscow’s attacks on Ukrainian history and attempts to defame Ukrainian heroes are a part of Russia’s general efforts aimed at eradicating Ukrainian national identity and sowing discord between Ukraine and its allies. This we cannot let happen!” Romaniw stated. 

The UWC calls on all our communities to mark this day of respect to our heroes. 

Glory to Ukraine! Glory to Heroes!