Story by Oleen Ndori
ZIMBABWE has joined Russia in commemorating Defender of the Fatherland Day, an annual observance honouring members of the Russian armed forces and veterans who defended the country’s sovereignty.
Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri attended the commemorations, describing the occasion as significant in a global environment characterised by conflict and geopolitical tensions.
“Defender of the Fatherland Day carries a multifaceted meaning. It is first and foremost a day of military glory and a solemn occasion to honour the courage, sacrifice, and steadfastness of the armed forces,” she said.
She noted that the day recognises serving members of the Russian military, veterans of the Great Patriotic War and personnel engaged in ongoing operations.
“The observance of this day unites all those who have devoted their lives to military service… defending the fatherland not just as a profession but as a sacred matter of honour and patriotic duty,” she added.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri also recalled Russia’s July 2008 veto of a draft United Nations Security Council resolution that would have authorised military intervention in Zimbabwe.
“We remain grateful to Russia’s bold stance in July 2008 to veto a draft United Nations Security Council resolution that would have authorised military interventions in Zimbabwe by the USA and its western allies,” she said, reiterating calls for reforms at the United Nations.
Russian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Nikolai Krasilnikov said the day remains a sacred occasion for Moscow, particularly as Russian forces continue operations in Ukraine.
“Defending and serving the fatherland has always been and remains a sacred cause for us. We are proud of our army, air force, navy and other troops for their unwavering strong character forged in the heat of battle,” he said.
“Today we celebrate Defender of the Fatherland Day, when a special military operation in Ukraine is going on. We are humbled by the fortitude and self-sacrifice revealed by military personnel engaged in the front line.”
Ambassador Krasilnikov welcomed Zimbabwe’s intention to seek a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–28 term.
“Moscow is also grateful to Harare for opposing and blocking anti-Russian initiatives and for confirming consistently the eagerness to go together through these turbulent times we live in by developing… the mutually beneficial partnership in various spheres, including military and military-technical cooperation,” he said, referring to cooperation under the leadership of President Vladimir Putin and President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Defender of the Fatherland Day is observed annually on 23 February in Russia and several former Soviet states, including Belarus, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan. This year’s commemorations come as the Russia–Ukraine conflict past the 4 year mark.
