October 14, 2022 – The Ukrainian World Congress (UWC), together with all Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine, honors the Day of Ukrainian Defenders and the Feast of the Intercession of the Blessed Mother of God, one of the most celebrated and important Christian holidays in Ukraine.
Ukrainians have long regarded the Blessed Virgin as the patron saint of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and the tradition of celebrating her Feast traces its roots back to the 12th century.
This October 14 marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army – also known as the UPA or Ukrainian partisan army, which, during WW2, fought for the independence of Ukraine against both the Nazi German and Soviet armies. Founded in 1942, UPA continued to resist Soviet rule until the early 1960s.
“The great history of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army and its fight for Ukraine’s independence once again reminds us of the resilience, perseverance, and courage of the Ukrainian people. Even in the darkest periods of their history, Ukrainians have sacrificed their lives for freedom, rather than bow down to occupiers and accept enslavement,” stated Paul Grod, UWC President. “If Putin understood the real history of Ukraine, he would have never started a war against Ukraine, because the Ukrainian people are brave and will never submit to Russian rule!”
Today, when Ukraine’s Armed Forces are heroically defending Ukraine and entre Europe against the brutal Russian horde, the celebration of the Defenders’ Day is especially important for every Ukrainian. We salute the fearless Ukrainian defenders and honor all the brave men and women who have given their lives for the freedom and independence of Ukraine.
“Never before in modern history have Ukrainians been so united around their country and their army, as they are today. On this day, we, once again, call upon the world to unite with Ukraine and its brave people in defending democracy and all our basic values in a war against deadly Russian imperialism. Together, we will finally put an end to Russian aggression – for good!” Paul Grod added.
UWC calls upon everyone who stands for freedom and democracy to join our #UniteWithUkraine campaign and donate today at www.unitewithukraine.com. Winter is near, and the UWC, along with our partners, is gathering donations to equip Ukrainian defenders with critical winter gear. Your generous donations will help protect Ukraine’s defenders throughout the winter!
Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heroes!
