Every year on October 28, Ukraine celebrates the Day of Ukraine’s Liberation from Fascist Invaders. The date was established by Decree of the President of Ukraine No. 836/2009 of October 20, 2009, to honor the heroism and sacrifice of the Ukrainian people during World War II.
It was on this day in 1944 that Ukraine’s westernmost region—Transcarpathia—was liberated.
During World War II, the expulsion of the occupiers from Ukraine lasted about 700 days. However, the war did not end with the events of October–November 1944—Ukrainians continued to fight in Europe until May 8, 1945, and in Asia until September 2. Back home, however, armed resistance against Soviet rule continued for more than a decade.
October 28 is an opportunity to honor all those who fought against the occupation, to remember the millions of military personnel and civilians who died during World War II, and to emphasize the importance of preserving a historical memory grounded in facts.
Today, Ukrainians are once again fighting for their freedom with weapons in hand, standing up to a treacherous and powerful enemy that disregards the laws and customs of war, as well as universally accepted human norms and principles.