A year ago, on Nov. 11, 2022, the Ukrainian military liberated Kherson from eight months of Russian occupation.
In a video address, President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Kherson residents for being steadfast and praised the Ukrainian army for liberating the city.
Kherson had been taken by Russian forces in the early days of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Zelensky said that Ukraine has not forgotten the cities and villages still under Russian occupation. He said that all Ukrainian land will be restored.
“Last year, the entire south of Ukraine became convinced that Russia never stays forever, no matter how many attempts it makes. Because Ukraine always returns, always, when we know our goal – when it's a common goal,” Zelensky said.
The head of Ukrainian intelligence, Kyrylo Budanov, also addressed Khersoners, calling the anniversary of the city’s liberation a significant turning point for Ukraine.
“The city continues to bravely stand and fight,” Budanov said.