On March 12, a large-scale nationwide forum titled “NATIONAL RESISTANCE 2026” was held in Kyiv. The event served as an important platform for discussing strategies to prepare citizens for contemporary security challenges, develop a system of national resistance, and strengthen cooperation between government institutions, veterans, and communities.
The Donetsk region was represented at the event by Oleksandr Shevchenko, Deputy Head of the Donetsk Regional State Administration; Pavlo Fedorenko, Head of the “Center for Unity and National Resistance” platform; and Andriy Shturkhetskyi, a specialist with the platform.
During the forum, participants discussed approaches to creating a comprehensive system for preparing the population to act in the face of military threats. Special attention was paid to the formation of national identity as a key factor in societal resilience. It was emphasized that knowledge of one’s own history, culture, and values is an essential part of society’s readiness to defend the state.
During the discussions, the importance of leveraging the combat experience of Ukrainian defenders in developing the civil preparedness system was also highlighted. Successful practices were presented regarding the involvement of veterans in educational programs, patriotic education of youth, and the fostering of a culture of responsibility for the country’s security.
For the Donetsk region, participation in the forum holds special significance. The region, which has been on the front lines of the struggle for Ukraine’s independence since 2014, has significant practical experience in organizing civil resistance and community cooperation in conditions of proximity to the front line.
At the conclusion of the event, a Memorandum on further cooperation and the development of the national resistance system was announced. For the Donetsk region, this marks another step toward strengthening the region’s internal resilience, where remembrance and readiness for action form the foundation of our indomitability.