Today, Ukraine celebrates the 202 birthday anniversary of its prophet – Taras Shevchenko.

Taras Shevchenko embodies the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people, the pursuit of freedom and the struggle for the truth. In all key moments of the modern history of Ukraine, his spirit is always present in the hearts of his heirs. Let’s remember Sergiy Nigoyan and the patriots who died with his truthful words two years ago, during the events of the Revolution of Dignity. Today, to withstand all the trials with a good grace, his words support Nadiya Savchenko, who is captured in Russia.

Like a half-century ago, today Ukraine is again fighting for independence from the Russian yoke. And as during that time, today the words of Kobzar are relevant and understandable to every Ukrainian, being a symbol of invincibility, courage and desire to gain freedom. His poetry is clear to so many generations of Ukrainians because it carries the simple truths, necessary for everyone.

Taras lived in more difficult times than we're going through now, but even then he believed in his country, in his people. So, today we should not lose faith, and worthy continue the work of a great Taras Shevchenko.