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Monday, 22 June 2026 13:34

Address by the President of Abkhazia, Badra Gunba, on the 85th Anniversary of the Outbreak of the Great Patriotic War

June 22, 1941, marks one of the most tragic dates of the 20th century. On this day, the Great Patriotic War began, which became a most severe ordeal for millions of citizens of the Soviet Union.

The war touched every home, affected every family, and demanded immense sacrifices and unparalleled courage. Along with other peoples of the Soviet Union, individuals from Abkhazia rose to defend the Motherland. Thousands of our compatriots fought on the fronts, demonstrating valor, resilience, and heroism. Many of them never returned home, having sacrificed their lives for the freedom and future of subsequent generations.

We bow our heads in memory of the fallen and express our profound gratitude to the veterans who, through incredible effort and self-sacrifice, crushed Nazism and gifted the world Victory.

Eighty-five years later, it is particularly crucial to preserve the historical truth about the events of the Great Patriotic War. Any attempts to revise its outcomes, distort the role of the peoples of the Soviet Union in defeating fascism, or justify the crimes of the Nazis are unacceptable.

The memory of the Great Victory unites our peoples and serves as a stark reminder of the tragic consequences that stem from misanthropic ideologies, national intolerance, and aggression. We are bound to do everything in our power to prevent the resurgence of Nazism and to safeguard the peace for which millions gave their lives.

Eternal memory to the fallen heroes. Eternal glory to the generation of Victors."

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