Volodymyr Zelensky visited the frontline positions of the Ukrainian military in the Bakhmut direction during his business trip to the Donetsk region.

The news was announced on the official Telegram channel of the President of Ukraine.

The President spoke with the servicemen and thanked them for protecting Ukraine.

“I am honored to be here today, in the east of our country, in Donbas, and to award our heroes, to thank you, and to shake hands. Thank you for protecting the state, sovereignty, and the east of Ukraine,” Volodymyr Zelensky said.

During the meeting, he presented state awards to military personnel.

In particular, artilleryman Captain Illia Verhun, who has the title of Hero of Ukraine, was awarded the Order of the Gold Star by the President. Since February 24, 2022, he has been involved in countering the armed aggression of the Russian Federation.

Illia Verhun directly led the anti-tank units during the liberation of the town of Trostianets, Sumy region, and participated in deterring the enemy in the Izium direction. The units under his leadership and with personal participation destroyed a large number of enemy vehicles.

Also, during the trip, the President visited military personnel undergoing treatment after injuries.

“Thank you for protecting Ukraine, and I wish you a speedy recovery. I want to thank the representatives of the Medical Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine for their professionalism and work. Before the victory, it is necessary to preserve the lives of many people who protect our state. You are protecting it on your front,” Zelensky said.

It is not the first time that the President visits frontline positions in the Bakhmut direction. Previously, on December 20, Volodymyr Zelensky visited Ukrainian defenders in Bakhmut.

The President visited the frontline positions and awarded the soldiers with decorations and valuable gifts. The length of the visit is unknown.