Ukraine's spy chief honors fighting dads as Ukraine marks Father's Day
Photo: Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov (Vitalii Nosach/RBC-Ukraine)
On Father's Day, celebrated on June 15 in Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, delivered a touching address. He thanked the soldiers who defend the country alongside their children.
According to Budanov, being a father means being ready to take responsibility for family, home, and country. It also means being capable of making difficult decisions and accepting the consequences.
"Hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian men prove daily their readiness to bear responsibility for the future of their families. They protect their children, relatives, and the country in the ranks of the Ukrainian army, including in military intelligence units," Budanov said.
He added that he personally knows what it means to pay the price for his children's future. Sometimes their voices are "heard only over the phone," and everyday moments are missed to live in a free country.
"I am grateful to everyone who strengthens Ukraine's victory. You are a worthy example for your sons and daughters. Honor to the fathers who raised a brave generation of young men who took up arms to defend Ukraine. I bow my head to those who gave their lives for freedom. I am especially grateful to those who now fight shoulder to shoulder with their sons and daughters — this is living proof of the continuity of our struggle," the Chief of the Defence Intelligence added.
Notably, Father's Day is not yet widely popular in Ukraine, but it is steadily gaining momentum. The holiday aims to honor fathers who actively participate in raising children and support their families.
For the history of this holiday and common ways to celebrate it, read RBC-Ukraine's report.
