Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday marked the third anniversary of Kherson’s liberation from Russian occupation with a visit to the embattled southern city, promising stronger defenses against the relentless attacks that continue to batter the municipality.
“Kherson is Ukraine”
Standing before the city’s iconic stele, Zelensky paid tribute to soldiers and civilians who defended Kherson and continue to endure near-daily bombardment. “In November 2022, our blue and yellow flags, which people hid for months, flew again on the streets of Kherson,” he said in a Telegram message. “We remember this joy, tears, hugs. Gratitude when you see how you return. The occupiers fled from Kherson thanks to the strength of our people.”
Zelensky emphasized that Kherson remains under constant assault by Russian forces positioned across the Dnipro River. “Russia terrorizes Kherson, ordinary people, ordinary lives every day,” he said. “And that is why Russia has no place here. Kherson is Ukraine.”
He also expressed gratitude to soldiers, rescuers, doctors, teachers, farmers, and volunteers who continue to sustain the city despite constant danger. “There are such people,” Zelensky said. “People who protect lives every day, who live for Ukraine and help, volunteer, save lives. You have renewed hope for victory. It is so important. Thank you for all these years.”
Strengthening defenses amid relentless attacks
During his visit, Zelensky held a meeting with local authorities, security officials, and members of Ukraine’s drone warfare units to discuss reinforcing Kherson’s protection. Zelensky promised new measures are being prepared to strengthen the city’s defenses against the thousands of Russian drone strikes launched each month.
“It was determined that it is necessary to give Kherson more protection,” Zelensky said. He noted that units such as the “Birds of Magyar” drone forces would expand their capabilities in the region. He also assigned government officials to improve road security and logistics to ensure greater mobility and resilience in the area.
From occupation to liberation
Kherson was occupied by Russian troops on March 2, 2022 – the only regional capital captured by Moscow temporarily during its full-scale invasion. After more than eight months under Russian control, Ukrainian forces launched a counteroffensive in September 2022 and recaptured the city on Nov. 11 that year.
Residents of Kherson resisted throughout the occupation, staging peaceful protests and maintaining hope for liberation. The return of Ukrainian forces brought what Zelensky described as “joy, tears, and hugs,” as the national flag once again rose over the city.
Honoring sacrifice and resilience
“Gratitude to our soldiers who defended and liberated Kherson,” Zelensky said. “We remember everyone who gave their lives for the freedom of the city. It’s forever.”
As Russia continues to shell the city daily, Zelensky vowed that Ukraine would never abandon Kherson or any of its occupied territories. “Just as we did not forget about Kherson, we remember all our cities and villages occupied by the enemy,” he said. “Let’s do everything to get them home.”