“Іду на Bас” – Idy na Vas
The phrase Idy na Vas, meaning “I want to come to you,” originated in Kyivan Rus in 964 and was first articulated by the son of Knyahynia Olha, King Sviatoslav the Brave, who is historically noted for his audacious and extensive military campaigns. Prior to initiating a new conquest, Sviatoslav would dispatch the message ‘Idy na Vas’ to neighboring territories, formally signaling the approach of his army. At the time, this practice was regarded to be an honorable diplomatic protocol, declaring war and affording adversaries the opportunity to prepare or surrender.
At the time, this practice was regarded to be an honorable diplomatic protocol, declaring war and affording adversaries the opportunity to prepare or surrender. At the same time, the declaration also functioned as a deliberate martial strategy. By compelling opponents to consolidate their forces in one place in anticipation of battle, Sviatoslav sought to resolve conflict through a single decisive encounter rather than in a prolonged war.
Idy na Vas is frequently misinterpreted due to its direct translation into the English language. Translated directly, Idy na Vas reads as “I’m coming for you,” which implies unprovoked aggression and positions Ukraine as an instigator- an interpretation that diverges from both the historical and contemporary intent of the quote. Scholars have determined that Idy na Vas is more accurately understood as “I want to come to you,” reflecting a martial ethic of transparency and honor: declaring intentions openly rather than relying on ambush. Over the centuries, the call Idy na Vas, has transcended its original purpose as an instrument of military etiquette. It has evolved into an emblem of courage, integrity, and forthright confrontation, embodying a willingness to face adversaries openly and without deceit. In contemporary usage, the phrase functions less as a literal declaration of war and more as a cultural and historical reference, representing Ukraine’s enduring commitment to defense and resilience. For this reason, Idy na Vas has been adopted as the motto of the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces, where it continues to signify bravery, honor, and a commitment to defend Ukraine.