Ukraine’s newly formed 155th Mechanized Brigade recently unveiled its motto, “On ne passe pas,” a phrase rooted in French military history.
Resilience in the Face of Overwhelming Odds.
Translating to “They shall not pass,” the slogan dates back to World War I and was famously used by General Robert Nivelle during the Battle of Verdun.
This was a brutal conflict that took place in 1916 and claimed 700,000 casualties over ten months, according to L'Independent.
The phrase has since become a powerful symbol of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
For Ukraine’s forces, it serves as a tribute to the French instructors who have trained and equipped them as they prepare for deployment on the front lines against Russian forces.
Trained in France
The Ukrainian soldiers trained in eastern France by French military instructors received their motto along with intensive preparation and modern military equipment.
Since May 2024, the 155th Brigade, also known as the Anne of Kiev Brigade, has been training under the guidance of 1,500 French military personnel.
Named after a historic figure who connected French and Ukrainian heritage — Anne of Kiev, a Ukrainian princess who became Queen of France in 1051 — the brigade stands as a testament to the deepening ties between the two nations.
France’s support includes an array of military equipment tailored for Ukrainian needs.
The 155th Brigade is fully equipped with French technology, including 128 armored vehicles, 18 Caesar self-propelled howitzers, and at least 18 AMX-10 tanks.
This substantial supply of weaponry and training underscores France’s commitment to Ukraine’s defense amid the ongoing conflict
