- January 20, 2025
- 2:50 pm
- Ukraine
In Ukraine, January 20 is celebrated Day of Remembrance of Defenders of Donetsk Airport. This month marks 10 years since the end of the fighting for the airfield.
The events of those days became an important milestone in the modern history of the country. The fighting for the DAP lasted from May 26, 2014 until January 22, 2015—242 days of fierce resistance by Ukrainian soldiers to the Russian occupation forces.
The phrase “People survived, concrete did not” became a symbol of the defense of Donetsk airport.
The battles for Donetsk airport became a symbol of the indestructibility and fighting spirit of the Ukrainian army, and terminal defenders are nicknamed “cyborgs”.
According to official data, more than 200 Ukrainian soldiers were killed defending the Donetsk airport.
In inhumane conditions, in almost complete encirclement, with a minimum of weapons and under constant Russian shelling, the cyborgs held the defense of Donetsk airport. It became one of the symbols of resistance to the Russian occupiers.
President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelensky addressed the nation in honor of the memory of the defenders of Donetsk airport. His speech recalled the heroism of those who defended a strategically important facility for 242 days in conditions of severe hostilities. In his address, Zelensky emphasized that the resilience of Ukrainian soldiers has become a symbol of the unbending spirit of the people.
“Today we remember the feat of our cyborgs.
242 days of defense of Donetsk airport. They held on to the last where it seemed impossible. This is a story of extreme courage. About people who survived where concrete failed.
We remember at what cost the battle for our freedom and present takes place.
Honor and glory to all who fought for Ukraine.” – said the President of Ukraine.
He also recalled that the feat of the DAP defenders united the country and became one of the key moments in the formation of a new Ukrainian identity.
Defense of Donetsk Airport: 10 years of memory and pride
On January 20, 2025, Ukraine celebrates the tenth anniversary of the end of the fighting for Donetsk airport. The events of those days became an important milestone in the modern history of the country. The fighting for the DAP lasted from May 26, 2014 until January 22, 2015—242 days of fierce resistance by Ukrainian soldiers to the Russian occupation forces.
Historical context: from a civilian airport to a symbol of heroism
Donetsk International Airport named after Sergei Prokofiev, opened in 1933, was reconstructed for the European Football Championship in 2012. A new terminal, modern infrastructure and a runway capable of handling all types of aircraft have made it an important transport hub. However, after the outbreak of Russian aggression in 2014, the airport became the scene of fierce fighting.
The first takeover attempts began on April 17, 2014. On May 6 of the same year, flights ceased, and on May 26, the airport became the target of military action. The Ukrainian army and volunteers managed to repel the attack and regain control of the facility. This day marked the beginning of a heroic defense that lasted more than eight months.
Heroism that has withstood more than concrete
The phrase “People survived, concrete did not” became a symbol of the defense of Donetsk airport. For 242 days, Ukrainian soldiers defended the territory, subjected to constant attacks, artillery shelling and airstrikes. Even when the airport's infrastructure was almost completely destroyed, the defenders continued to hold their positions.
Key events were:
- Summer 2014: relative calm after the first battles.
- September 2014: intensification of hostilities, despite the signed Minsk agreements.
- December 2014: destruction of the old terminal.
- January 2015: the collapse of the control tower and the final assault on the new terminal, which led to its explosion.
The number of losses and the feat of the defenders
During the fighting, hundreds of Ukrainian soldiers died or were injured. According to official data, more than 200 DAP defenders were killed and hundreds were injured. However, their feat was not in vain: the defense of the airport fettered the enemy’s actions and thwarted plans for a further offensive.
| Indicator | Data |
|---|---|
| Duration of battles | 242 days |
| Losses of Ukrainian defenders | more than 200 dead |
| Destroyed infrastructure | old and new terminals, runway |
Symbol of national unity
The defense of Donetsk airport became an important stage in strengthening Ukrainian identity. President Zelensky noted that the tenacity of the defenders inspired millions of Ukrainians. “This is a feat that has become a symbol of the indomitability of our nation,” he said.
Today, the feat of cyborgs is remembered not only in Ukraine, but also beyond its borders. Social media is full of messages of support, memories and gratitude. Memorial events are held in various cities of Ukraine.
Lessons for future generations
The tenth anniversary of the end of the fighting for the DAP is not only a day of mourning, but also a reminder of how important it is to be ready to defend your freedom. The defense of the airport showed that unity and readiness for self-sacrifice can change the course of history.
Ukrainian heroism and international response
The feat of the defenders of Donetsk airport became an important lesson for the whole world. Numerous international media called these events “an example of invincibility.” Israel, home to a significant Ukrainian diaspora, also actively followed the developments.
On our website NAnews – Israel News we publish articles devoted to the relationship between the two peoples, their common struggle for freedom and independence.
Conclusion
The feat of the defenders of Donetsk airport is a story of courage, perseverance and unbending will. On this day, Ukrainians and their friends around the world remember those who gave their lives for freedom and independence. Let the memory of the heroes inspire future generations to fight for peace and justice.
Our website NAnews – Israel News continues to talk about significant events that unite our peoples. Follow the news to find out more.
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