New Recognition for Special Operations Forces in Ukraine

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, has established May 27 as the Day of Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

On this day in 2014, soldiers from special forces regiments, who would later form the basis of the SOF, executed a critical operation to liberate the new terminal of Donetsk airport from enemy troops and raised the Ukrainian flag.

“In honoring the courage and heroism of the Special Operations Forces in their fight for freedom, independence, and territorial integrity of Ukraine, I decree: to establish the Day of Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, to be celebrated annually on May 27,” states decree No. 346/2025 dated May 26, 2025.

The decree took effect upon publication.

Additionally, a separate order from the commander of SOF, Major General Oleksandr Trepak, has designated July 29 as the day of remembrance for fallen soldiers of the Special Operations Forces.