Sailing Competition in Odesa
A sailing competition was held in Odesa in celebration of Ukraine's Independence Day.
According to a UN resolution, June 4th is recognized globally as International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression.
In Ukraine, following a decision by the Verkhovna Rada, this day is dedicated to the memory of children who have lost their lives due to armed conflicts.
Since 2014, Ukrainian families and children have lived in constant danger, suffering injuries and, most tragically, losing their lives.
As reported by the government portal, by June 4th, 2025, 1975 cases of injured children and 631 fatalities have been documented due to aggression. These figures are likely underreported due to ongoing hostilities.
In the Odesa region, during the war, 12 children have lost their lives due to enemy shelling, including 9 in Odesa itself.
The memory of each child is sacred.
We are called to preserve it in our hearts, in prayer and love, so as never to lose our ability to empathize and remain silent in the face of evil.
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Commemorative events for the little Ukrainians whose lives have been cut short by the war are held as part of the annual “Voices of Children” campaign initiated by First Lady Olena Zelenska.