I cordially congratulate you on this great holiday — Victory Day, May 9.

This sacred day is forever inscribed in human history as a symbol of courage, resilience, and selfless devotion to the Motherland. No matter how many years pass, the significance of the Great Victory does not fade — it remains a moral guide for all generations.

Together with all the peoples of the Soviet Union, the people of Abkhazia stood shoulder to shoulder in defense of their common Motherland against the Nazi invaders. Thousands of our compatriots went to the front, demonstrating heroism and self-sacrifice. More than 55,000 residents of Abkhazia took part in the Great Patriotic War, and over 17,000 of them never returned home. The high title of Hero of the Soviet Union was awarded to 23 natives of Abkhazia, and their heroism will forever remain in our memory.

Inspired by the example set by the heroes of the Great Patriotic War, their children and grandchildren honorably continued the traditions of valor and patriotism. During the difficult years of the Patriotic War of the people of Abkhazia, they rose to defend their land, displaying courage and loyalty to the Motherland.

Special words of gratitude and deepest respect go to our dear veterans who are still with us today. You are a living link between generations, guardians of the truth about the war, and true heroes whose courage and strength of spirit continue to inspire us. Caring for and supporting you is our sacred duty. We bow deeply to you for the Victory, for the peaceful sky above us, and for the opportunity to live and build our future.

Today, more than ever, it is important to preserve historical truth with great care. Attempts to rewrite history, diminish the decisive role of the Soviet people’s Victory, or distort the memory of the millions who defended freedom and peace are unacceptable.

On this significant day, I express my deep gratitude to veterans, home front workers, and all those who brought Victory closer. We bow our heads in memory of the fallen heroes.

I wish you, dear compatriots, good health, peace, and prosperity. May the memory of the Great Victory unite us, inspire us to create, and strengthen our love for the Motherland.

Happy Victory Day!”