In the framework of the working visit to Lviv region, President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko visited Petro Sahaidachny Academy of Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Addressing the servicemen, the President noted that Ukraine was going through the most difficult phase of its history – all Ukrainians were defending territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence.

The Head of State mentioned special role of servicemen who take part in the ATO. "The success of every operation depends on professional training and personal qualities of militaries," he stressed.

Petro Poroshenko noted the contribution of the Academy of Ground Forces to the formation of a new generation of militaries. In the course of the hostilities, 62 officers-graduates of the Academy have been put forward for a decoration, among them Hero of Ukraine Yevhen Zelenskyi. "I am confident that new generations of Ukrainian heroes must be raised at such examples," the President said.

The Head of State called the reformation of the defense sector the first priority. "By the end of the year, a plan will have been submitted to the Parliament. It will define the way to reform the defense sector, to increase the efficiency of the Armed Forces and special forces, to make them well-equipped and mobile," the President informed.

According to the Head of State, it is necessary to change obsolete approaches in the preparation of the Armed Forces and use new methods of NATO countries. For this end, special programs of training and equipping Ukrainian militaries have been approved.

Petro Poroshenko highly evaluated the actions of airmobile troops in the course of the ATO. He noted that the Armed Forces, the National Guard, the border guards and special units were successfully using the ceasefire regime to improve the defense capacity and efficiency of the army.

The President expressed belief that the Ukrainian army would further demonstrate its best qualities and the state would increase support to the defense complex and militaries. "The state has switched the economy to the military format and does everything for the Ukrainian army to be the strongest," he emphasized.

The Head of State awarded servicemen who demonstrated courage and heroism in the ATO area.

Order "For Courage" of the III grade has been awarded to junior sergeant Vadym Masovets, senior soldier Volodymyr Sirkiv and senior soldier Andriy Shevchuk.

Also, the President visited the museum of the Academy.