President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation, speaking about the need to punish the killers of our soldier who bravely said to them in their faces: "Glory to Ukraine!" — and about the defensive operation on the Bakhmut axis.

"I wish health to all dear Ukrainians!

Today, I started my day with a meeting of the General Staff. A detailed meeting.

We reviewed the situation on operational axes, in each key point of combat operations. Chiefs, commanders, and reconnaissance reported. There was a special report about the situation in Bakhmut, around the city, and more than an hour-long discussion. In fact, the topic of Bakhmut became the main focus of this meeting.

I want to be frank on such topics. Sometimes there are many disinformation reports from those who cannot even hear closed discussions about defense but claim to know certain decisions regarding defense issues.

Society needs to understand the true meaning of our defensive operations. Today, at the meeting, I directly asked General Syrski, commander of "Khortytsia," and Chief Zaluzhny about their vision for further defensive operations on the Bakhmut axis. Whether to retreat or continue defending and reinforce in the city. Both generals responded — not to retreat but to reinforce. This position was unanimously supported by the General Staff. There were no other positions.

I told the chief to find appropriate forces to help our boys in Bakhmut.

There is no part of Ukraine that we can give up on. There is no Ukrainian trench where the steadfastness and heroism of our fighters would be worthless.

The occupier kills for the mere fact that we are Ukrainians. For just one word about Ukraine. For our dream of Ukraine. For our life — the life of Ukrainians. And we destroy the occupier everywhere — wherever it gives results for Ukraine. Bakhmut has given and continues to give one of the biggest results during this war, throughout the battle for Donbas.

And I thank every soldier who fights on this most difficult axis. Who fights for all parts of our country, on all fronts.

We will defend and continue to defend every part of Ukraine. The time will come — we will free every city, every village of our state. And force the occupier to answer for every shot against Ukraine, for every treachery against Ukrainians. Legally if possible, with weapons if necessary.

Thanks to our unity, thanks to our determination, and because we value all of Ukraine and every Ukrainian, we know exactly what the result of this war will be. We knew it from day one.

In Ukraine, "Glory to Ukraine!" will always ring out, and millions will always respond: "To the heroes — glory!" It will always be so.

Ukraine will never forget the feats of every man and woman who gave their lives for freedom for our nation.

Today, a video emerged showing how occupiers brutally murdered a soldier who bravely said to them in their faces: "Glory to Ukraine!"

I want all of us together, united, to respond to his words: "To the hero — glory! To heroes — glory! To Ukraine — glory!"

And we will find the killers.

I thank everyone who is now fighting for Ukraine! I thank every one of you who helps Ukraine!

Eternal memory and respect to all those who gave their lives for freedom for our people!

Eternal memory and respect to all Ukrainian heroes of different times, who dreamed and fought for freedom for Ukraine!

Ukraine will win!

Glory to Ukraine!