The Parliament of Ukraine has officially introduced a new Day of Remembrance — to honor fallen defenders, volunteers, and civilians whose lives were cut short in captivity as a result of torture, executions, or cruel treatment.
Legislative initiative No. 10188 was supported by 268 deputies of the Verkhovna Rada.
According to the adopted resolution, July 28 will now be the Day of Remembrance of Ukrainian defenders, volunteers, and civilians who died in captivity as a result of torture, execution, or inhumane treatment.
This day was introduced at the state level in response to public calls to perpetuate the memory of the victims of Russian aggression and to annually remind of the crimes against Ukrainians committed during the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation.
The chosen date is not accidental: it was on the night of July 29, 2022 that the Russian occupiers carried out a terrorist attack in the village of Molodizhne in the temporarily occupied territory of the Donetsk region. As a result of an explosion on the territory of the former correctional colony in Olenivka, a building where Ukrainian prisoners of war - defenders of Azovstal - were being held was destroyed. At least 53 Ukrainian fighters were killed then, and more than 130 were injured.
This cynical act of mass murder was one of Russia's most brutal crimes against prisoners and a gross violation of international humanitarian law, which obliges the occupying power to ensure the safety, life, and dignified treatment of prisoners of war.
In order to preserve the memory and honor the heroism of the defenders of Ukraine, volunteers, and civilians who died or were executed in captivity, July 28 was officially declared Remembrance Day at the state level.
The introduction of this day is intended to express deep gratitude and respect for the selflessness and courage of those who gave their lives for the freedom, independence and integrity of Ukraine. This day will contribute to the perpetuation of their civic courage, indomitable spirit and resilience, as well as strengthen national unity and awaken patriotic feelings in the hearts of Ukrainians.