
Today, May 27, Ukraine officially celebrates for the first time the Day of the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
This day was established by a presidential decree in 2024 and is dedicated to one of the defining events in the history of the modern Ukrainian military — the liberation of the new terminal of Donetsk airport on May 27, 2014.
On this day 10 years ago, Ukrainian special forces carried out a successful military operation during which they raised the national flag of Ukraine over a strategic object, recapturing it from the enemy. The operation became a symbol of the professionalism, determination, and combat spirit of the newly formed Special Operations Forces, which at that time were just being established as a separate branch of the military.
The Special Operations Forces — one of the youngest yet one of the most elite units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. They carry out the most complex and dangerous tasks: deep reconnaissance, sabotage, counter-terrorism, information-psychological operations, as well as participation in strategic combat operations. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the Special Operations Forces have proven themselves as an incredibly effective combat force, inflicting significant losses on the enemy, particularly in temporarily occupied territories.
The establishment of a separate day to honor the Special Operations Forces is intended to acknowledge their contribution to the defense of the country and to honor the fallen soldiers who gave their lives for Ukraine.