At a time when European politicians hoped to appease the aggressor, Ukrainians were the first to declare their rights proudly and bravely - President paid tribute to the heroes of the Carpatho-Ukraine

During a working visit to Zakarpattia region, President Petro Poroshenko took part in solemn events on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the proclamation of Carpatho-Ukraine and the battle of Krasne Pole.

"This is an event that is extremely important for every Ukrainian. Free independent united Ukraine honors today those who declared the statehood of Carpatho-Ukraine 80 years ago," the President noted during his speech.

The Head of State stressed that before the Second World War, when other states tried to appease the aggressor, Ukrainians were defending the world. "We recall those who at the time of mortal danger, when the deadly breath of the Second World was already felt, had the courage to declare: Ukraine existed, Ukraine exists and Ukraine will definitely exist. At a time when European politicians still hoped to appease the aggressor, Ukrainians were the first to declare their rights proudly and bravely," the President said.

The Head of State stressed that the proclamation of the independence of Carpatho-Ukraine, proclamation of our statehood had been the act of courage and patriotism. "Its significance was immediately understood by Ukrainians separated by the borders and by the whole world. Statehood of the Ukrainian language, flag, anthem, Trident of Volodymyr the Great on the coat of arms - Carpatho-Ukraine laid the foundation for the future united Ukraine,” Petro Poroshenko said.

The President recalled that "80 years ago, here, at the Krasne Pole, fighters of the Carpathian Sich entered the heavy and unequal battle with the overwhelming forces of the invaders". "The Second World War de facto began for Ukraine here. Here, the Ukrainian resistance to the bloodiest totalitarian regimes of the XX century started," he added.

"The heroes of Krasne Pole stand in the same line with the defenders of Ukraine under the Kruty, the UPA heroes, our contemporaries who defend Ukraine"s freedom and independence in the fight against Russian aggression," the President said.

The Head of State reminded that yesterday, Ukraine had celebrated the Day of the Ukrainian Volunteer. "On this day five years ago, the hundreds of the Maidan’s self-defense started defending Ukraine. Just as the heroes of the Carpathian Sich, volunteers from all regions of Ukraine started to fight for freedom. They also lacked weapons and equipment, but did not lack love for Ukraine and faith in its future. This faith and love won despite everything," Petro Poroshenko emphasized.

"Eternal memory and glory to the heroes of the Carpatho-Ukraine. Glory to all who gave their lives in the struggle for freedom and independence of Ukraine," the President said. The attendees honored memory of the heroes with a moment of silence.

"But we came to the site of the heroes’ feat not only with the words of respect. We came to say that we continue your work. In five years under war conditions we have laid the foundation for a great future of Ukraine. The future, for which the fighters for freedom of Ukraine gave their lives," the President said.