February 20, 2026: A Day of Remembrance for Ukraine's Heavenly Hundred and the Start of Russian Aggression.

Key Dates in Ukraine on February 20

According to TSN.ua: Ukraine marks several significant observances on February 20, 2026. These include:

• Heavenly Hundred Heroes Day
• Day of the Beginning of Russian Aggression Against Ukraine
• International Day of People Who Have Overcome Alcoholism

This date holds profound meaning in the context of remembering the events of the Revolution of Dignity and the ongoing war in Ukraine, a conflict that has reshaped European security.

Heavenly Hundred Heroes Day

Ukraine commemorates Heavenly Hundred Heroes Day annually on February 20. Established by a presidential decree in 2015, this day honors those killed during the protests of the Revolution of Dignity, which took place in Kyiv and other cities during the winter of 2013–2014. The period of February 18–20, 2014, was particularly tragic, marked by the shooting of protesters. February 20 saw the highest number of activist fatalities, a day that has become a symbol of the struggle for freedom and dignity.

This date also marks the start of armed aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine. On February 20, 2014, the armed seizure of Crimea began, carried out by Russian military units without insignia. These actions led to an illegal "referendum" in Crimea held in March 2014. As of February 20, 2026, this day represents the 1,457th day of the ongoing war in Ukraine, which began with that aggression.

February 20 is also observed as the International Day of People Who Have Overcome Alcoholism. Proclaimed by the UN in 2007, this day aims to draw attention to the problem of alcoholism and support those who have managed to overcome this dependency.

Thus, February 20 in Ukraine is a significant day that combines the memory of heroism and sacrifice with a reminder of the social challenges society faces.

Commemorating this date underscores the importance of remembering those who died during the Revolution of Dignity and Ukraine's continuing struggle for territorial integrity and independence. The situation in the country remains tense, and annual observances serve as a reminder of the need to support war victims and combat social issues like alcoholism, which can affect society as a whole.