Yanukovych congratulates compatriots on Victory Day

Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych has congratulated his compatriots on the 68th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War.

"Today we pay tribute to those who sacrificed themselves, saved our land from fascist enslavement and brought us peace and freedom. The bright memory about millions of our deceased compatriots will remain forever in our hearts," reads a posting on the presidential Web site.

"I am confident that Ukrainian people will never forget the sacrifice and military valor of their liberators and will always be proud of their immortal feat," the president said.

Yanukovych noted that this year we would celebrate the 70th anniversary of liberation of our capital, the hero-city of Kyiv, and next year – of the whole Ukraine.

"We are grateful to you, dear veterans, for showing courage and sacrificing your life to save our native land. Hats off to you!" said the president.