Zelenskyy: Only Ukrainians Will Decide Who to Call Their Heroes

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized during the 9th International Veterans Forum that Ukrainians alone will determine who they consider their heroes, with the veteran community playing a crucial role in honoring them. The Ukrainian National Pantheon is set to be established on the grounds of the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra National Reserve, according to a resolution adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers on July 4.

Zelenskyy stressed that the decision on who is deemed a hero should be made by Ukrainians themselves, not just at the national level, but also within local communities. He urged state officials and representatives of Ukrainian communities to involve the veteran community more actively in the policy of honoring heroes and the feats of the Ukrainian people.

Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukraine's independence is not a single event in the state's history, but a continuous process where every individual can point to significant moments, days, and battles that shaped the fate of the nation. He also expressed hope for Ukraine's peaceful future and gratitude towards its defenders.