Honouring the Russian people
TDS
4 March 2024
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.
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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.