Day of Remembrance and Heroism of Blockaded Leningrad 27.01.2025
January 27 is the day when all of Russia bows its head in memory of the courageous residents of blockaded Leningrad. This day has become a symbol of unyielding will, resilience, and heroism that allowed the city to survive during the most difficult years of the Great Patriotic War. It was on January 27, 1944, that the 872-day blockade ended, and Leningrad was liberated from the Nazi invaders. This historic event, forever etched in the memory of the people, testifies to the incredible strength of spirit of those who endured one of the most tragic yet majestic chapters in our country’s history.
Today, we express our deepest gratitude to the veterans and survivors of the blockade, who not only defended their city but also worked under inhumane conditions, ensuring its survival. Despite the cruel suffering, hunger, and cold that became part of their daily lives, they managed to preserve Leningrad. Their heroic deeds and sacrifices laid the foundation for future victory, and the memory of those who gave their lives but did not live to see the long-awaited liberation will forever remain in the hearts of their descendants.
This day will always symbolize resilience, sorrow, and pride for the city of Leningrad and all of Russia. It is not just a remembrance of the past but also a reminder that our strength lies in unity and in never forgetting the lessons that war has taught us.
The traditional laying of flowers took place at the Piskaryovskoye Memorial Cemetery—one of the most important sites commemorating the blockade of Leningrad, where hundreds of thousands of city residents and defenders are buried. This year, the ceremony took on special significance as representatives of the Greek community joined in paying tribute to the heroes of blockaded Leningrad. The joint laying of flowers brought together representatives of the House of Nationalities and the city’s national-cultural organizations in a unified procession, underscoring the importance of unity in preserving historical memory. As is tradition, our deeply respected President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin was also present at the Piskaryovskoye Cemetery, once again affirming the significance of this date for the entire country.
Europe, like the rest of the world, must remember its enormous debt to the Soviet Union, which lost millions of lives in the fight against fascism. The blood of Soviet soldiers and civilians stopped the horrors of World War II. Without their self-sacrifice, the freedom and peace that Europe enjoys today would not have been possible. For our part, we have no right to forget that these unparalleled sacrifices paved the way for our future.
January 27 is a day when the entire world, and we Russians in particular, remember the people who became living symbols of courage and resilience and pay tribute to their deeds, which will live on for centuries.
