The Ukrainian Ambassador has opened The Tank Museum’s new exhibition about the Russia-Ukraine war and concluded his speech by stating: “We will win”.
General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, a four-star general and former Commander-in-Chief of his country’s armed forces, also offered his uniform to the museum in Dorset.
He thanked those behind the exhibition and the British people for their “support, solidarity and true friendship”.
Called ‘Ukraine: Armoured Warfare in the Modern World’, the exhibition includes tanks but also poignant possessions of refugees who fled their country after the invasion in 2022.
General Zaluzhnyi took the opportunity to mention the anniversary of the liberation of the ‘Hero City’ of Chernihiv.
He said: “The city became a symbol of resilience. It was surrounded, cut off from communication, lacking weapons – but full of faith in freedom.
“Chernihiv held out because it was defended by ordinary Ukrainians: volunteers, members of the territorial defence and soldiers. Armed not only with rifles but with unbreakable spirit.
“The same spirit is what this exhibition represents. Not technology for its own sake, but armour that became a shield to protect human life.”
The General described the history of the tank and their importance but noted: “Even the strongest armoured vehicles are losing their advantage in the face of new threats – drones, precision strikes and digital intelligence.”
He toured the exhibition and was moved to meet Ukrainian refugees, some of whose stories are told.
He said: “This exhibition is not only about machines. It is about people. About Ukrainian soldiers who fight not for new borders, but for the right to live in their own country. About British instructors who shared their knowledge. About families who became refugees, but never lost hope.”
Chris Price, Museum Director, said: “It was a great privilege to have the Ukrainian Ambassador open our new exhibition.
“After looking around the exhibits he met some Ukrainian refugees and was clearly moved. He also offered us his uniform which is extremely generous.
“In his speech he talked about the history of the tank and obviously has a deep understanding of armoured vehicles, but also the importance of new technologies.”
Tobias Ellwood, a former MP who served with The Royal Green Jackets, said: “The exhibition explains the horrors of conflict as it unfolds every day. That’s why it is so impressive.”
The exhibition is open from Friday 4 April and is due to last for two years.