Russian President Vladimir Putin has paid tribute to the Soviet soldiers, officers, medical staff, and professionals who served in Afghanistan, describing their service as honorable and worthy.
Speaking at a gala evening marking the 35th anniversary of the conclusion of combat missions by the Limited Contingent of Soviet Troops in Afghanistan, Putin said, "Hundreds of thousands of soldiers, officers, civilian specialists—medical workers, teachers, construction workers, representatives of other professions—under the most difficult conditions have honorably fulfilled their duty in Afghanistan."
He praised their courage and dedication, stating, "They showed fearlessness and bravery, nobility and mercy in carrying out their assigned tasks." Putin also expressed his respect for the fallen heroes who fought valiantly on Afghan soil, protecting their homeland.
Recognizing the significance of the Day of Withdrawal of Soviet Troops from Afghanistan, Putin noted that it is a proud and meaningful date in Russia's military history. He recalled the return of the battle-hardened units to their homeland on February 15, 1989, when the official withdrawal of Soviet forces from Afghanistan was completed.
Traditionally, this day is observed as a memorial for all Soviet and Russian participants in post-World War II conflicts, with particular remembrance for the 416 large-scale operations conducted by Soviet troops in Afghanistan from 1979 to 1989. Out of the 620,000 Soviet servicemen who served in Afghanistan, 15,051 lost their lives.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from TASS