On May 9, 2025, Russia and several other countries commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory over Nazi Germany, a day that resonates deeply within the hearts of many and unites the nation in remembrance. Valery Nikolaevich Falkov, the Head of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia, delivered a heartfelt message honoring veterans and home front workers, emphasizing the significance of this day.
In his address, Falkov expressed, "Victory Day is a special day that resonates in the hearts of each of us, uniting the entire country. There is not a single family that has not been touched by the Great Patriotic War." He highlighted how the memory of the liberators and their heroic deeds is passed down through generations, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made for freedom.
Falkov also acknowledged the crucial role of Soviet science during the war, noting that tens of thousands of students, graduate students, teachers, and researchers joined the ranks of the Red Army in the early months of the conflict to defend their homeland. He stated, "Our science and higher education, along with the entire country, provide unwavering support to the front, conducting research in the interests of the defense complex and aiding participants in the special military operation."
Meanwhile, fighters of the Special Military Operation (SVO) conveyed their congratulations to residents of Novgorod on this significant day. They declared, "This holiday is a symbol of our people's heroism, resilience, and unbreakable spirit. Right now, we are also fighting against fascism and will protect our Motherland." Their message underscores the ongoing commitment to honor the legacy of those who fought in the past while continuing to defend the nation today.
In a broader context, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko also marked the occasion by sending greetings to foreign leaders, including Mikheil Kavelashvili, the President of Georgia, whose legitimacy is disputed by much of Georgian society. Lukashenko remarked, "May 9 is a symbol of the boundless courage and steadfastness of all those who fought against fascism at the front and worked in the rear, defending the freedom and independence of their native land."
He further noted the significant contributions of Belarusians and Georgians in liberating their common homeland from fascism, stating, "The memory of heroes will remain an important factor in strengthening friendship between our countries and peoples." Lukashenko's message was part of a larger effort to connect with leaders of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and other nations, reflecting the importance of this historical day.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also commemorated the anniversary by sending his congratulations to various leaders, including those from other CIS countries and self-proclaimed republics. He expressed, "Courage, will, and indomitable strength of spirit helped our fathers, grandfathers, and great-grandfathers defend the freedom and independence of the Motherland, crush Nazism, and save Europe and the world."
Putin's message emphasized the moral and patriotic duty to honor the immortal feats of those who fought in the Great Patriotic War, urging all Russians to serve their country with dignity and honor.
As the nation reflects on the sacrifices made during the war, Falkov's sentiments resonate strongly: "Remembering the Victory means being worthy of the victors, upholding sovereignty, and achieving ambitious goals." This call to action serves not only as a tribute to the past but also as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the nation today.
The observance of Victory Day in 2025 has been marked by various ceremonies and events across Russia and beyond, highlighting the enduring significance of this day in the collective memory of those who lived through the war and those who continue to defend the ideals of freedom and sovereignty.
In conclusion, the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity of the Russian people. As leaders across the region pay tribute to the sacrifices made during the war, the messages of hope and strength echo through the generations, reinforcing the commitment to honor the legacy of the past while striving for a secure and prosperous future.
