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Ukraine's mine sniffing dog Patron awarded medal by President Zelensky
Canada PM Trudeau and Ukraine President Zelensky award service dog "Patron" during news conference in Kyiv on May 8-2022 (Reuters/Ukrainian Pesident Press Service/Handout)

The Channel news Asia reported, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy presented Ukraine's famous mine sniffing dog Patron and his owner with a medal on Sunday (May 8) to recognise their dedicated service since Russia's invasion.

The pint-size Jack Russell terrier has been credited with detecting more than 200 explosives and preventing their detonation since the start of the war on Feb 24, quickly becoming a canine symbol of Ukrainian patriotism.

Zelenskyy made the award at a news conference in Kyiv with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Patron barked and wagged his tail, prompting laughter from the audience. Trudeau patted his pockets as though looking for a dog treat.

Canada is among the leaders of supporting Ukraine in the fight for its own freedom. The fact that the Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau is next to the Ukrainian people today means a lot to us. I believe that together efforts we will succeed in overcoming all challenges. (Ukraine president official Facebook account)

Zelenskyy said in a statement after the ceremony: "Today, I want to award those Ukrainian heroes who are already clearing our land of mines. And together with our heroes, a wonderful little sapper - Patron - who helps not only to neutralise explosives, but also to teach our children the necessary safety rules in areas where there is a mine threat."

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The CNA noted that the award also went to Patron's owner, a major in the Civil Protection Service, Myhailo Iliev.

Source: cna