Warriors of the Word, happy holiday!

Today, your job is not just a profession. It is a weapon. You keep the information front line alongside our military, risking everything to let the world know the truth. You are a voice of truth amidst the darkness of lies and propaganda.

This truth is too expensive.

According to verified data from the Ukrainian Union of Journalists and the International Federation of Journalists, the occupiers killed at least 150 media workers. Among them are 21 media men and women who were performing their professional duties; 10 civilian victims; and 119 media representatives who were defending Ukraine.

At least 28 journalists still remain in Russian captivity.

Our native Siverskodonetsk and Luhansk region will forever mourn Oleksandr Bondarenko, Oleksandr Makhov, Anastasia Volkova, Dmytro Siryk, and Dmytro Bendikov. They gave their lives for our right to speak out loud. May their memory be bright for everyone.

Dear journalists, my only request to you is: take care of yourself. But don't stop. Film, write, sound. Don't let the world forget about our struggle.

Happy Journalist's Day!