Over 200 cadets from the National Academy of the Security Service of Ukraine and the SSU Institute have taken an oath of allegiance to the Ukrainian people. The solemn ceremony took place at the Khotyn Fortress, near which the Zaporizhzhian Cossacks and their allies repelled the Ottoman Empire in 1621.

‘In the same way, now Ukraine must defend not only itself, but entire Europe. The Security Service of Ukraine is directly involved in this. We are fighting the occupiers not only on the battlefield, but also in the invisible war waged by the intelligence services across the entire territory of the state. Every day, our officers expose agents, detain traitors and prevent terrorist attacks and acts of sabotage. They are doing their utmost to counter the enemy on all fronts,’ said Major General Oleksandr Poklad, Acting Head of the SSU.

Brigadier General Andriy Tupikov, Deputy Head of the Security Service, also congratulated the cadets on taking their oath. During his speech, he noted that the SSU expects the new recruits to demonstrate diligence in their training and future work.

‘You have chosen the path of a Ukrainian defender at an extremely difficult time for the country. This conscious choice deserves respect! After your training, each of you will find your place within the state’s security apparatus, whether in counterintelligence, investigations, or a combat unit. You will be surrounded by people you can rely on: mentors, colleagues, and commanders. But this brotherhood is forged not only through professional training. It is founded on shared values, strength of spirit, and mutual understanding. Ukraine’s national interests come before all else!’ Andriy Tupikov emphasised.

In keeping with tradition, the classes are named after Ukrainian servicemen who lost their lives fighting for their country. One of these servicemen is Major Nazar Borovitskyi, a Hero of Ukraine who served in counterintelligence for many years. In 2022, the russians shot down a helicopter carrying his team as they flew to assist the crew of a downed helicopter from Azovstal.

Another class has been named in honour of SSU Major Tymur Hetmanskyi, who was killed by pro-russian terrorists in 2014.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Nazar’s and Tymur’s families, who also congratulated the cadets. A minute’s silence was observed in memory of all the fallen heroes.

‘From today, defending the country is also your responsibility! I won’t hide the fact: it’s not an easy path. You will have to overcome many challenges. So remember your oath, study hard and love your country. After all, you are the ones who will shape its future,’ concluded the SSU’s Deputy Head.