Celebrating the Territorial Defense Day in Ukraine

On October 5, 2025, Ukraine celebrates Territorial Defense Day. This holiday was established by the Presidential decree “On the Day of Territorial Defense of Ukraine” on September 30, 2020, to emphasize the significance of territorial defense in ensuring the country's defense capability, and it is celebrated annually on the first Sunday of October.

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Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal congratulated the Territorial Defense forces on their professional holiday and emphasized that they demonstrated the best qualities of the Ukrainian spirit from the first days of the full-scale war.

“Today we honor the brave Ukrainians who, at the most critical moment in our history, took up arms and stood to defend Ukraine. From the first days of the full-scale war, the TDF fighters exhibited the finest traits of the Ukrainian character – courage, dedication, and resilience,” Shmyhal stated.

He stressed that today Ukraine is grateful to the TDF fighters for their significant contribution to the protection of our people and our common home.

“Eternal memory to the TDF warriors who gave their lives for the freedom of Ukraine and its people. Glory to everyone who defends Ukraine!” Shmyhal emphasized.

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Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk noted on the occasion of Territorial Defense Day that the TDF symbolizes the readiness of Ukrainians to defend their land always and everywhere.

“Territorial defense is a symbol of the readiness of Ukrainians to defend their land at any time and place. From the first days of the full-scale invasion, thousands of men and women within the Territorial Defense Forces stood to protect Ukrainian cities and villages, halted the enemy where they attempted to break through, safeguarded critical infrastructure, and defended people from sabotage and strikes,” Stefanchuk noted.

“Thank you to all who serve in the TDF ranks. Your determination and readiness to defend your homeland is the strength that makes Ukraine unbreakable. We also honor the memory of fallen soldiers. Today and every day, during the national moment of silence, Ukraine bows its head in memory of everyone who gave their life for freedom,” Stefanchuk emphasized.