A video released by the Cherkasy Regional State Administration showed Mr Hrybov, dressed in military fatigues, receiving a civic medal.
(Picture: )A Ukrainian soldier who famously gave a expletive-laden statement of defiance as he faced a Russian attack on the first day of the invasion has been honoured with a bravery award.
Roman Gribov – also spelled Hrybov - was among a small troop of guards defending the tiny Snake Island in the Black Sea when he told one of Vladimir Putin’s warships to “go f*** yourself”.
An audio clip of his exchange with Russian warships was released and became one of Ukraine’s foremost symbols of patriotism and resistance, and has been shared online millions of times.
The phrase appeared appearing on billboards and on placards in anti-Russia protests around the world.
The soldier was feared dead along with other 12 guards when the warship fired on the island, but it transpired days later the group had survived and had been taken prisoner by Russian forces.
They were returned to Ukraine in a prisoner exchange last week.
A video released by the Cherkasy Regional State Administration showed Mr Hrybov, dressed in military fatigues, receiving a civic medal.
“I want to say a big thank you to the Ukrainian people for such support,” he said. “We strongly feel this support, it inspires us.”
