Every year, on 28 October, Ukraine celebrates the Day of Liberation from Nazi Invaders to commemorate the heroic deeds and sacrifice of the Ukrainian people in World War II. Find out about the events that preceded it and the connection between the past and the present

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Ukraine has witnessed many events and vicissitudes in the history of the world, but one of the most important is its role in the events of World War II. The history of Ukraine during the war is a history of sacrifice and heroism, and it has seen great changes and upheavals that have influenced the country's further development. The Day of Liberation of Ukraine from the Nazis is a symbol of remembrance and gratitude to those who gave their lives for the freedom and independence of Ukraine, to those who stood up to defend the homeland in the most difficult times. We are telling you all about this day of remembrance of the soldiers who died in the battles for the liberation of Ukraine, as well as about the current challenges that our country is facing.

Events of the Second World War that influenced the fate of Ukraine

After World War I, Ukraine lost its independence and came under the control of the Russian Soviet Federation, which later became part of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. 

However, political repression and the artificially created Holodomor of the 1930s resulted in numerous victims and suffering for the Ukrainian population.

At the beginning of World War II, Ukraine experienced complex events that determined the future. 

In September 1939, the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact divided Ukraine between Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. This event led to German occupation and nationwide resistance.

During the Second World War, key battles for the liberation of Europe from fascism took place on the territory of Ukraine. 

For 40 months, the Ukrainian land was the scene of important military events. A significant part of the Wehrmacht forces was concentrated on the territory of Ukraine, and many of them were defeated thanks to the brave actions of Soviet troops.

Between January 1943 and October 1944, a number of brilliant offensives were conducted, including the Voronezh-Kharkiv, Donbas, Chernihiv-Poltava, Korsun-Shevchenkivsk, and Lviv-Sandomyr offensives. 

The Carpathian offensive, which began on September 9, 1944, completed this journey. On October 27, 1944, Uzhhorod was liberated, and on October 28, Soviet troops reached the modern border of our country.

The Day of Liberation of Ukraine: October 28, 1944

One of the most important days in the history of Ukraine during World War II was October 28, 1944, when the Soviet Army, together with partisan groups and the forces of the anti-Hitler coalition, liberated Kyiv from Nazi occupation. 

This day symbolizes the beginning of the end of fascist oppression in Ukraine.

It was on this day that the Bagration offensive took place, during which Soviet troops liberated not only Kyiv but also other important cities of Ukraine, such as Vinnytsia, Zhytomyr, Zhmerynka, and others. 

It would take a lot of space to cover all the important battles and circumstances of these events, but it was an important step in the fight against fascism in Ukraine.

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National heroism 

During World War II, Ukrainians displayed incredible heroism and selflessness. 

Thousands of Ukrainians overcame hardships and risked their lives participating in the partisan movement, helping the Allies, and fighting the Nazi invaders.  Many of them paid with their lives for the freedom of their country.

The liberation of Ukraine became possible thanks to the heroic operations of the four Ukrainian fronts, which numbered more than 2.3 million soldiers. 

Consequences of the war for Ukraine

During the war, about three million Soviet soldiers were killed on the territory of Ukraine, and more than two million Ukrainians were deported to Germany for forced labor. 

Thousands of towns and villages were destroyed, and millions of people were left homeless. 

After the liberation of Ukraine from Nazi occupation, the country became part of the USSR, and the power over Ukrainian affairs was once again under Moscow's control. Subsequently, the country experienced industrialization and the transformation of its economy under the influence of Soviet policies.

The Great Patriotic War had terrible consequences for Ukraine, but it was also an important step towards the liberation and restoration of Ukraine's independence.

Ukraine's declaration of independence in 1991 was marked as a historic moment when Ukraine separated from the Soviet Union and became a sovereign state. 

However, despite this step, Ukraine still faces serious challenges to its territorial integrity and independence.

The legacy of the Second World War and modern warfare

The legacy of the Second World War and Ukraine's Liberation Day is an important component of national history and identity. It reminds us of the sacrifices and heroism of our ancestors in the struggle for freedom and independence.

Today, Ukraine is facing new challenges, including Russian aggression and a threat to its independence. 

The war with the terrorist country began in 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and supported militants in eastern Ukraine in Donetsk and Luhansk regions. 

And after the full-scale invasion, the fighting led to even more deaths and injuries, orphaned children, extensive damage to cities and infrastructure, and created a humanitarian crisis in the region. 

Ukraine and its people have a responsibility to past and future generations to continue their struggle and aspirations for freedom and independence. 

The belief in the victory of all invaders who encroach on the freedom of the Motherland becomes the life view of Ukrainians.

The Ukrainian people have repeatedly proved their strength, resilience and commitment to the ideals of freedom and independence. Despite all the challenges and difficulties, Ukraine has a spirit of struggle and hope for a better future. 

The Day of Liberation of Ukraine from Nazi invaders is not only a holiday of remembrance, but also a reminder of the importance of peace, freedom and independence. Ukraine must fight for its territorial integrity and freedom in the face of this war, and this requires great efforts and international support.

How to support Ukraine?

Given the importance of Ukraine's struggle for independence and freedom, one way to show your support is to buy merchandise with Ukrainian symbols. 

You can become an ambassador of Ukraine by purchasing clothes, accessories or household goods in the Merch section, part of which will go to support Ukrainians with delivery around the world.

Wear blue and yellow to stay in trend. Buying stylish clothes will not only add color to your wardrobe, but will also be a way to express your support and pride for Ukraine. 

This is exactly what Visit Ukraine merchandise is for! Choose accessories and stylish clothing with Ukrainian symbols to your liking here.

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