In recent days, the solemn opening of an exhibition dedicated to the fallen fighters of the Azov Regiment and the Belarusian soldiers who died defending Ukrainian statehood took place at the “D12” art space in Kyiv.

The exhibition was organized by the All-Ukrainian Trade Union of Defenders of Ukraine, represented by Deputy Head Sofia Cherepanova, and the association of relatives of fallen defenders, represented by Oleksandr Lohinov — the father of Belarusian soldier Yevheniy Lohinov, known by the call sign "Malder." His son died at Azovstal on May 5, 2022. Oleksandr personally collected and compiled over 300 stories and portraits of soldiers who were killed in Mariupol, became victims of the terrorist attack in Olenivka, or did not return from captivity.

“Our Trade Union was created to serve as a shield for defenders, both when they are on duty and when they are serving on the heavenly front. We share the pain of every family present in this hall. For us, this exhibition is personal. We must do everything possible to ensure that all these names do not become mere statistics in history textbooks, but live on in the memory and hearts of Ukrainian society,” said Sofia, who lost her cousin in 2022 and spent three years fighting for her brother, who was captured by Russian forces after the defense of Mariupol.

The exhibition opening brought together in one hall the families of the fallen, their comrades, public figures, government representatives, and military leadership. Among the distinguished guests were: Deputy Minister for Veterans Affairs of Ukraine Ruslan Prykhodko; Adviser to the Ukrainian Military Ombudsman on coordination with families of missing and captured soldiers Olena Belyachkova; Deputy Head of the Kyiv Regional State Administration Ivan Dobrovolskyi; Commander of the 2nd International Defense Legion of Ukraine, Colonel Ruslan “Santa”; and Commander of the Belarusian Volunteer Corps, Rodion “Gena” Batulin.

Veterans of the Azov Regiment, who also defended Mariupol and survived captivity, including comrades “Diplomat” and “Nikopol,” came to support the families.

Throughout the event, the hall resonated with poignant memories and life stories of the Heroes shared by their families, friends, and comrades. Ukrainian artist SUROV performed symbolic songs “Smoke to the Sky” and “Moment of Silence,” dedicated to the fallen defenders, alongside military singer Valeria Okhtyrchanka. Attendees also participated in a collective reading of the Nationalist Prayer from the Azov Khorunzhy Service — words that for many became a vow, a pledge, and a spiritual shield in the most difficult moments.

HONOR THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES FOR OUR FREEDOM! LET US UNITE FOR THE FUTURE OF UKRAINE!