The Ukrainian Defense Forces are not only fighting for their own people, they secure the front lines fighting for democracy and the right to freedom.

This was the address of Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, the Chairman of the NATO Military Committee, to the 17^th Annual Kyiv Security Forum “UA: UNITE AGAIN TO DEFEAT THE GLOBAL AGGRESSOR”, organized by the Arseniy Yatsenyuk Foundation “Open Ukraine”.

“On this day of remembrance, we honour the countless lives lost in the fight against tyranny and oppression during World War II. We remember the courage of those who stood for freedom. The same courage we recognize in you today. For over three years now, 1,169 days, you have defended your nation with unbreakable spirit and unwavering resolve. You are not just fighting for Ukraine, for your families and your fellow citizens. You are standing on the front lines of democracy and the right for freedom,” he stressed.

Giuseppe Dragone noted that “NATO sees your sacrifice. NATO hears your voice. And NATO stands with you. We pay tribute to your fallen heroes who have given everything in this struggle. Their memory strengthens our commitment to support Ukraine, to uphold our values.”

The Admiral directed a special address to military servicemen: “Sisters and brothers of the Ukrainian Armed Forces! Your courage today is a gift to tomorrow. Today is not only about remembering the past. It's about shaping the future. A future where Ukraine is free, sovereign, and secure. From every NATO nation, from every uniform we wear, we salute you. Your struggle is our shared cause. We will not waver. And neither will you. Slava Ukraini!"