The obvious desire of many island residents to annually pay tribute to the heroism of Leningrad’s citizens during the Great Patriotic War is understandable. Most Russians and Cypriots share traditional values and equally reject any manifestations of fascism. Cypriots themselves selflessly fought in various parts of Europe against the “brown plague” represented by the regimes of Hitler and Mussolini, and those who fought in those battles, as well as their descendants, are well aware that the heroism and dedication of the residents of besieged Leningrad have become an example for all time.

The heroism of the Leningraders has received recognition throughout the world. The tragic and heroic events of the siege of the city on the Neva, which was experienced by the family and friends of our national leader, Vladimir Putin, are an undeniable evidence of the utter futility of any attempts by ill-wishers to break the spirit of the Soviet and Russian peoples. The high patriotic spirit of Russians, including the large Russian diaspora in Cyprus, leaves no doubt on this score.

In previous years in Cyprus, on January 27 a large number of ceremonies were held to congratulate the survivors of the siege, to lay wreaths at war memorials, and to organise numerous exhibitions and film screenings. This year, the Russian Center of Science and Culture, with the support of the Embassy, the Russian diaspora, and our Cypriot friends is preparing a new series of events to commemorate the lifting of the siege of Leningrad.

@rusembcy