Ukrainian President, First Lady honor "Heavenly Hundred Heroes"


(MENAFN) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his wife, Olena Zelenska, have paid tribute to the Heavenly Hundred Heroes on the ninth anniversary of their deaths. The Ukrainian head of state posted a video on his Telegram channel showing the couple placing candles near the Stele of Memory on the Alley of the Heavenly Hundred Heroes in Kyiv. The post read, "Ukrainians know what it means to fight for their freedom and defend it. In difficult and pivotal moments of history, we never give up and always show bravery and selflessness. Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heavenly Hundred!"

February 20 marks Heavenly Hundred Heroes Day in Ukraine, which is celebrated every year to commemorate the sacrifices made by those who died during the Revolution of Dignity. This day is observed in accordance with a presidential decree of February 11, 2015, "On commemorating the feat of participants in the Revolution of Dignity and perpetuating the memory of the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred."

The Revolution of Dignity was a significant event in Ukrainian history that took place between November 2013 and February 2014. The protests began after then-President Viktor Yanukovych decided to abandon a trade agreement with the European Union in favor of closer ties with Russia. The demonstrations grew in size and eventually turned into a movement for political reform, economic reform, and an end to corruption. It was during this time that a confrontation between the Ukrainian people and the Yanukovych regime reached its peak, resulting in the deaths of many protestors.

From February 18 to February 20, 2014, the largest number of people died on the Maidan square in Kyiv - 78 people. More than 20 protesters died of injuries after February 20. The Heavenly Hundred Heroes, as they are called, are those who died during these protests. The day is marked by solemn ceremonies, including the laying of flowers and candles, to honor their memory.

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