Defender of Ukraine Day honors all those who have defended Ukraine's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, including soldiers, veterans, volunteers and civilians.

When is Defender of Ukraine Day?

Defender of Ukraine Day is observed annually on October 1 (formerly October 14).

The following is the list of Defender of Ukraine Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Defender of Ukraine Day?

Prior to 2014, Ukraine observed February 23 as "Defender of the Fatherland Day", a Soviet holiday inherited from its time within the USSR. Following the Russian annexation of Crimea and the start of the war in Donbas, Ukraine sought to break from Soviet traditions and emphasize its own military heritage.

On October 14, 2014, then-President Petro Poroshenko signed a decree establishing Defender of Ukraine Day to replace the Soviet-era holiday, align the observance with Ukrainian cultural and historical symbolism, and honor modern soldiers, veterans, volunteers and fallen heroes.

October 14 is the Feast of the Intercession of the Theotokos (Pokrova) in Eastern Orthodox and Greek Catholic traditions, long venerated in Ukraine as a symbol of protection.

It is also the day associated with the Ukrainian Cossacks, who viewed the Virgin Mary as their protector, and the founding of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) in 1942, which fought for Ukrainian independence during and after WWII.

In 2023, the Ukrainian government moved the holiday to October 1, citing a need to modernize the state calendar, reduce overlap with religious observances, and ensure consistent commemoration amid wartime challenges.

Despite the change, October 14 remains a meaningful cultural and religious date for many Ukrainians.

Defender of Ukraine Day is a day to remember those who protect the country—and a reminder that the struggle for freedom continues.