Honouring the Russian people

TDS

Nikolay Tsybulia, Defence Attaché of the Russian Embassy with Defense Attachés accredited to South Africa at the celebration of the Defender of the Fatherland Day (photo: TDS)

4 March 2024

“They miscalculated, this is absolutely obvious today, their plans have collided with the firm position and determination of our people,” said Russia President Vladimir Putin in his State of the Nation address to State Duma and the Federation Council, the two chambers that make up the Russian parliamentary system. He said the irrational actions of the western ‘so called’ developed nations against Russia has unified their nation and has instilled a sense of belief in Russian culture, language, industry, products, sport and economics amongst others.

Russian President Vladimir Putin delivering his State of the Nation address (photo: Sputnik)

The Russian Federation has chosen a path of progress and development that is beneficial to Russians. The annual address on the work of the government mostly concentrated on domestic and internal matters of State. On global matters, President Putin outlined Russia’s dynamic and open foreign policy, aligning with the emerging nations that share the principle of a multipolar world system with multilateral diplomatic relations and inclusive cooperation. The Russia- Africa summit has facilitated closer cooperation and will further strengthen relations between the Eurasian and African region. The expanded BRICS nations and the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisations) are the focus for Russia’s International relations as these associations represent an overwhelming majority of the world’s regions and populations.

Mr Nikolay Tsybulia, Russian Defence Attaché (photo: supplied)

In South Africa, the Embassy of the Russian Federation marked its annual Defender of the Fatherland Day on 23 February, commemorating the dedication and sacrifice of those who serve in the nation's armed forces. Mr Nikolay Tsybulia, Defence Attaché of the Russian Embassy, together with Mr Ilya Rogachev, Ambassador of Russia to South Africa, hosted a reception in honour of this occasion. Tsybulia emphasized the importance of solidarity and partnership forged through years of service. He envisioned a future of mutual cooperation and trust in a multipolar world that leads to equal opportunities for all nations and peoples.

Reaffirming Russia's commitment to enhancing cooperation in various military spheres, Tsybulia extended congratulations to South Africa for its recent Armed Forces Day on 21 February. This commitment includes joint naval exercises, exchange programs for army delegations, and the organization of strategic bomber flights to South Africa. He expressed eagerness to expand partnerships in maritime zones, space exploration, peacekeeping efforts, and military education.

At the February screening of the Russian Embassy’s monthly movie night, a documentary and film related to significant historical events were featured. The screening included the documentary "Maidan: A Road to War," chronicling the protests in Ukraine from 2014 to 2022 sparked by political decisions, and the feature film "The Best in Hell," portraying the grim realities of combat without taking sides, but rather focusing on the relentless mechanics of war.

Ambassador Rogachev introduced "The Best in Hell," emphasizing its realism in depicting a battle for a multi-storeyed residential building. The film serves as a testament to the challenges faced by soldiers in conflict zones, offering insights into combat tactics and the harsh realities of warfare.

Ambassador Ilya Rogachev at the wreath-laying ceremony in Utrecht (photo supplied)

On 1 March 2024, adding a historical dimension to the commemorations, Ambassador Rogachev and his delegation paid homage to Russian volunteers who fought during the second Anglo-Boer War. Visiting Utrecht, Kwazulu-Natal, wreaths were laid at the Leo Pokrowsky monument and the Wall of Memory, paying respects to the 90 Russian volunteers. Pokrowsky himself fell in battle on 25 December 1900, during an attack on the British Garrison in Utrecht. The visit to Utrecht serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Russian military, reflecting a history of sacrifice and camaraderie that resonates across borders and generations.

Honouring the Russian people

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