Lukashenko on memory of Great Victory

During a public speech, President Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that the memory of the Great Victory is an important part of the shared historical lives of Belarus and the Murmansk region, where both regions contributed to the victory over fascism. He stated that "we cannot throw the victory overboard" and called for respect and pride in its significance. Lukashenko also expressed bewilderment over critical statements from some Baltic states and Ukraine, stressing that "it is important to be proud of the great achievements of one's people."

The confrontation with criticism from neighboring countries seemed to him a test for Belarus; according to the president, "this is our common path, and there is value in preserving history."

His speech became part of the ongoing discussion about Russian-Belarusian relations and the shared history of the war.

Context

People in Belarus continue to mark the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War, with memorial events and official meetings with war veterans being organized this year.