Today, many Ukrainian children cannot hug their fathers

Today, many Ukrainian children cannot hug their fathers. Yet it is because of their fathers' courage that both these children and Ukraine have a future.

For us, Father's Day is no longer simply a time for gifts, family gatherings, or photos together. Today, it is filled with gratitude, pride, and deep emotion. The fathers of hundreds of thousands of children are serving our country. Through their example, they teach the next generation what it means to be strong, to love their homeland, and to stand firm in the face of adversity.

Sadly, for some children, their father now lives on only in cherished memories—in voice messages, photographs, and precious moments forever held in their hearts. His love, care, and strength continue to inspire them every single day.

Today, we honor the fathers who are with their families and those who are far from home, fighting so they can one day return for good. Thank you to every father who nurtures, supports, protects, and gives his children the greatest gifts of all—a sense of security and hope for a peaceful, brighter future.

Happy Father's Day.