President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Presidential Office chief Kyrylo Budanov marked Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces (SOF) professional holiday on May 27, paying tribute to the unit’s role in defending the country during the ongoing war with Russia.
In a message posted on X, President Zelenskyy described the SOF as one of the most effective components of Ukraine’s defense forces, highlighting their precision, resilience, and consistent operational impact.
“Precise operations – and always important results for the state,” Zelenskyy wrote. “Every day, the warriors prove their strength, endurance, and professionalism in the fight for Ukraine.”
He added that Ukraine’s survival depends on those who continue to risk their lives in highly dangerous missions, emphasizing gratitude for their courage and dedication.
“Ukraine stands thanks to those who have fought and continue to fight for our state as they would fight for themselves, who risk their own lives for the safety of others, and who carry out exceptionally important work in the most dangerous conditions,” he said. “We thank every SOF warrior for their courage, dedication, and defense of Ukraine.”
Separately, Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Presidential Office and former intelligence chief, also issued a statement honoring the Special Operations Forces, describing their combat record as “a chronicle of unique missions” that have already become part of modern military history.
Budanov referenced several major operations and battles, including fighting in Donetsk Airport and Bakhmut, as well as special operations in the Black Sea, the liberation of Snake Island, and operations around the Kinburn Spit.
“From the fierce battles for Donetsk Airport and Bakhmut to daring landings in the Black Sea, the liberation of Snake Island and the Kinburn Spit — everywhere, the enemy felt your signature: act undetected, strike without mercy, stand unbroken,” Budanov said.
He added that he personally knows many members of the SOF and expressed confidence in their continued role in Ukraine’s defense efforts.
“It is a great honor for me to know many of you personally, to remember our combat cooperation and to work together toward our victory. I am always confident in each of you,” he said. “Thank you for your character, endurance and unconditional professionalism — to every member of the Special Operations Forces. Eternal memory to the warriors who returned from their missions on their shields.”
The statements come as Ukraine continues to rely heavily on its special operations units for reconnaissance, sabotage, and high-risk missions across multiple fronts of the war.
