Victory Day celebrations in Minsk
Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko took part in the solemn events in honor of Victory Day in Minsk on 9 May.
The head of state laid a wreath at the Victory Monument in Minsk.
Aleksandr Lukashenko was accompanied by his three sons.
Wreaths and flowers were laid by from representatives of government, the National Assembly, the judiciary, law enforcement agencies, public associations and political parties, the diplomatic corps, veterans, and clergy. Aleksandr Lukashenko and all those present on Victory Square observed a minute of silence in tribute to the memory of the fallen heroes.
In his speech, Alexander Lukashenko wished compatriots Happy Victory Day, stressing that this victory helped to preserve the Belarusian people and predetermined the path of development of all generations of Belarusians. It has become an integral part of the national idea," Aleksandr Lukashenko said. “Today, standing at the sacred Eternal Flame we bow before our veterans, pay tribute to the memory of those who died defending our right to live. To live freely in our native land and in our own state."
The Belarusian head of state also addressed a strong message to residents of Western countries and to those who canceled Victory Day.
"Addressing the peoples of the West, I want to say: you are not so blind as not to understand all the monstrous ramifications of the failed attempts to reorganize Libya, Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and other countries by force. This all has happened recently. Did you succeed? Democracy on the wings of NATO fighter jets has brought these countries only pain and suffering, casualties and destruction, economic chaos and any lack of prospects. No puppet government that you brought to power there managed to turn their countries into a blooming oasis. I want you, the peoples of the West, ordinary people in Paris and Berlin, Warsaw, New York, Brussels, Amsterdam, dreaming of a green Sahara, of saving the Amazon forests and feeding children of Africa, to know that your money, a lot of your money is spent on the most garden-variety genocide," Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
Traditionally, during the celebration of 9 May, the Belarusian anthem was played on Victory Square, with state flags flying high and hundreds of balloons soaring into the sky under the volleys of artillery salute.
After the solemn event, the president had a warm conversation with the veterans. Despite their advanced age, representatives of the generation of winners greeted the president standing. Aleksandr Lukashenko, in turn, welcomed them and persistently asked them to sit back into the chairs. However, here too, the veterans showed resilience. "You have completely forgotten how to fulfill orders," the head of state joked. “Please, sit down. Thank you!"
The Belarusian leader expressed words of gratitude to the veterans and wished them long years. "Well, I have to repeat the order again: please live as long as possible! It will be difficult for us without you. You see what’s happening. But please don't worry, we won't disgrace you. Thank you for everything! We owe you! Please live! You've already done your job," the president wished the veterans.
Aleksandr Lukashenko also welcomed the representatives of the diplomatic corps who attended the event: "Thank you for coming. You are true ambassadors who are not afraid of anything: either COVID, conflicts, wars, or any attacks.
