Press releases

2 Jul 2019

Belarus PM lays flowers in Victory Square in Minsk

MINSK, 2 July (BelTA) – Belarus Prime Minister Sergei Rumas and his spouse laid flowers at the Obelisk in Victory Square in Minsk as part of the Belarus Remembers. We Remember Everyone campaign, BelTA has learned.

The campaign is dedicated to the 75th anniversary of Belarus' liberation from the the German fascist invaders. The flower ceremonies are being held around the country. Any Belarusian is welcome to join the campaign.

The campaign involves young people, MPs, representatives of public associations, the Federation of Trade Unions of Belarus, famous athletes. Chairman of the Council of the Republic Mikhail Myasnikovich and Chairman of the House of Representatives Vladimir Andreichenko, Vice Speaker of the Council of the Republic Marianna Shchetkina, the heads of the standing commissions of the Parliament laid flowers in the Masyukovshchina memorial complex.

Victory Square is one of the most majestic and ceremonial squares of Minsk. Minsk residents and guests of the Belarusian capital, war veterans and young people come here to observe a minute of silence in tribute to the Great Patriotic War heroes. Victory Monument honors the valor and dedication of all soldiers and partisans who defended the country’s freedom and independence during the war. Elements of the monument tell about the history of the war.

The monument is crowned with the three-meter replica of the Order of Victory made of bronze and multicolored smalt. At the foot of the obelisk is the Sword of Victory. The four facets of the pedestal hold bronze relief thematic images: "9 May 1945", "Soviet Army during the Great Patriotic War", "Belarusian Partisans", "Honor to Fallen Heroes". The four bronze wreaths around the obelisk signify the four Fronts. The soldiers of these fronts gave their lives fighting to liberate Belarus from the German fascist invaders. The capsules containing soil from the Soviet cities holding the title “Hero City” have been buried under 12 granite blocks.

On 3 July 1961 Honorary Citizen of Minsk, Hero of Soviet Union Major-General Aleksei Burdeiny lit the eternal flame at the foundation of the obelisk. A memorial hall was opened in the underpass under Victory Square on 8 May 1985 to honor the 40th anniversary of Victory.