On Sunday, October 1, Ukrainians celebrate the Day of Defenders for the first time on a new date. On the same day, the ancient holiday of the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated. On this day, the Day of the Ukrainian Cossacks is also celebrated. Therefore, the official holiday, founded in 2014, includes honoring not only modern defenders, but also those soldiers who laid down their lives for the Motherland in past centuries.

The holiday was established on October 14, 2014 by the decree of the President of Ukraine with the aim of honoring the courage and heroism of the defenders of the independence and territorial integrity of Ukraine, the military traditions and achievements of the Ukrainian people, promoting the further strengthening of the patriotic spirit in society and supporting the initiative of the public. In connection with the reform of the church calendar in Ukraine, the Intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary will be celebrated on October 1 from 2023. Today we congratulate all our defenders. We also honor the memory of those who died fighting for Ukraine. Glory to heroes! Eternal memory of the fallen.