The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has reported about 23 killed SBU officers during the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) period.

"The SBU has lost 23 best officers since the start of the ATO," the press center of the SBU reported last week.

Referring to SBU Chief Vasyl Hrytsak, the press center said that first cadets of the SBU Academy took part in the parade devoted to the 26th anniversary of Ukraine's Independence.

"Academy cadets and all our officers should remember that the right to take part in the parade and represent the SBU before the Ukrainian people has been won at the expense of the lives of our sworn brothers," Hrytsak said.