Today, January 20, Ukraine honors the defenders of Donetsk airport, heroes called "cyborgs". The battle for the airport lasted 242 days - from May 26, 2014 to January 22, 2015. Under constant shelling and attacks, Ukrainian soldiers demonstrated unprecedented courage, endurance and resilience.
Their feat has become a symbol of the invincibility of the Ukrainian army, and the defense of the airport is said to be: "People held out, concrete did not."
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remarked the unbreakable courage of the DAP defenders.
"242 days of defense of Donetsk airport. They held out until the last moment, when it seemed impossible. It is a story of extraordinary courage. It's about people who held out where concrete could not. We remember the cost of the struggle for our freedom and the present. Honor and glory to all those who fought for Ukraine," Zelenskyy said in his speech.
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrskyi also emphasized, that this defense foiled the plans of the Russian occupiers and became a landmark page in modern military history.
"They have become a true symbol of the incredible resilience and courage of the Ukrainian people, who continue to fight heroically for the independence of their country. The example of the "Cyborgs" continues to inspire a new generation of defenders to achieve victories for the sake of Ukraine! Eternal respect and honor to all soldiers who gave their lives for our freedom! Their heroism will remain in our hearts forever," said the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Author: Danylo Pievchev