In Vitebsk, on the Day of the Defenders of the Fatherland and the Armed Forces of Belarus, a tribute was paid to the fallen in battle

Belarusians treat the profession of a soldier with respect. Our grandfathers and great-grandfathers had to take up arms more than once to defend their native land from enemies. The army and the people, united, defended freedom, despite losses and hardships. They achieved success not only in battles but also in restoring the national economy after devastating battles. The Great Patriotic War is a special page in history. The feat of Soviet soldiers, partisans, underground fighters, and home front workers will forever remain in the memory of descendants as an example of unprecedented resilience and courage. We rightly take pride in our countrymen such as Pyotr Masherov, Minay Shmyryov, Lev Dovator, Alexander Gorovets, Alexei Danukalov, and Konstantin Zaslonov. In total, during the Great Patriotic War, about 130 natives of Vitebsk region were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. Our soldiers and officers displayed no less high moral qualities, valor, and courage while performing their military duty in hot spots around the planet in the post-war period. Today's servicemen, who are capable of repelling an aggressor if necessary, remain true to the traditions of previous generations. This gives us confidence in the future.

Events dedicated to the holiday were held in all districts of the region. Representatives of authorities and the public visited memorable places. For example, in Vitebsk, the Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee Alexander Subbotin, the Chairman of the Regional Council of Deputies Vladimir Terentyev, and the Aide to the President – Inspector for Vitebsk Region Anatoly Linevich, along with representatives of the city authorities, public organizations, and youth, held a ceremony of laying wreaths and flowers at the monument to Soviet soldiers, partisans, and underground fighters on Victory Square. Salvos of guns were fired in honor of the fallen soldiers.

— This holiday, dedicated to the memory of fallen soldiers, thanks to whom we live in a free country today, is especially relevant in the Year of Historical Memory. We must remember what happened so that past tragedies, God forbid, do not happen again. Recent events prove that peace is fragile. The absence of war in the 21st century seems like a matter of course, but, as practice shows, everything can turn upside down in one day, — said Alexander Subbotin. — Also, on February 23, we express our gratitude to current servicemen and people who contribute to the protection of the country's sovereignty and independence in their workplaces, including medics, teachers, utility workers, and agricultural workers.

Alexander Mikhailovich also emphasized that Belarusians, whose ancestors survived wartime hardship, inhuman suffering, and genocide, know the price of peace perfectly well. Therefore, Belarus is a country that excludes military aggression against others.

"Vitebskiye Vesti"