On May 9, 2025, leaders in Russia and South Ossetia commemorated Victory Day, a significant occasion marking the triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II. This year, the day was underscored by heartfelt messages emphasizing the valor of soldiers and the importance of remembering the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War.
The President of South Ossetia, Alan Gagloev, sent a congratulatory message to Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, celebrating the day as a symbol of indomitable courage and the heroic deeds of soldiers on the front lines. In his message, Gagloev highlighted that the courage displayed by the heroes of the Great Patriotic War continues to serve as an example for modern soldiers from both Russia and South Ossetia, who are currently fighting against what he termed modern fascism. "The courage of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War is today an example for the soldiers of Russia and South Ossetia fighting shoulder to shoulder against modern fascism in the zone of the special military operation," Gagloev stated.
Gagloev’s message went beyond mere congratulations; it included acknowledgments to several prominent figures in the Russian government, such as Yury Chayka, Valeria Gergieva, Vladimir Kolokoltsev, and others. He emphasized the collective memory of the sacrifices made by veterans and the need to honor their legacy.
Meanwhile, Valentina Matvienko, the Chairwoman of the Federation Council, also addressed the nation on this poignant day. Matvienko stressed two key tasks for contemporary society: to provide comprehensive care for veterans and to protect the historical truth regarding the Great Patriotic War. In her address, she remarked, "We will always remember the immortal feat of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War — the selfless fighters against the German-fascist invaders, the liberators who destroyed the shackles that Hitler and his allies had placed on European states."
Matvienko’s words resonated with the national sentiment, as she called upon Russians to honor the sacrifices of those who fought and died during the war. She noted that it is the duty of every citizen to ensure that the memories of living veterans are cherished, and that their monumental sacrifices should not be in vain. "Our duty is not only to surround the living veterans with maximum attention and care but also to ensure that their colossal sacrifices are not forgotten, and that their achievements are not diminished or overlooked," she urged.
In her speech, Matvienko also took a firm stance against any attempts to revive or justify Nazi ideology, emphasizing the importance of unity in defending the true history of the Victory. "The best gratitude to the heroes of the war is our unity in upholding the true history of the Victory," she asserted. For millions, May 9, 1945, remains a day that unites the triumph of Victory with the sorrow of irreparable losses, a sacred and bitter date forever etched in the national memory of Russia and its allies.
Matvienko also expressed her disapproval of recent actions taken by the German authorities, who prohibited the use of St. George ribbons and other symbols of Victory during the Immortal Regiment march in Berlin. She criticized this decision, stating that Germany is increasingly distancing itself from acknowledging the outcomes of the Great Patriotic War.
In her remarks, Matvienko reiterated the necessity of honoring the memory of fallen heroes who displayed unwavering will and resilience during the most challenging times. "Russians must surround the veterans of the Great Patriotic War with attention and care," she emphasized, underlining the collective responsibility to maintain the significance of the Soviet people's feats and to prevent any distortion of history.
As the nation reflects on the sacrifices made during the war, the messages from leaders like Gagloev and Matvienko serve as reminders of the enduring legacy of courage and resilience. They call upon the current generation to uphold the values of remembrance and respect for those who fought for freedom and peace.
Victory Day not only commemorates a historical event but also reinforces the collective memory of a nation that stands united in honoring its past. The calls to action from both Gagloev and Matvienko resonate strongly in a time when the lessons of history remain crucial for future generations. The spirit of Victory Day continues to inspire, reminding all that the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War must never be forgotten.
As the day concludes, Russians are encouraged to participate in various commemorative activities, including parades and gatherings, to honor the heroes of the past. The resilience and bravery demonstrated during the war remain a source of pride and unity for the nation, ensuring that the legacy of those who fought lives on in the hearts of the people.
Victory Day serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance, unity, and the ongoing commitment to uphold the values of peace and freedom in the face of any threat. As the nation celebrates its history, it also looks forward to a future where the lessons learned from the past guide the path ahead.
