As you know, Defender of the Fatherland Day was established in the USSR. Today we congratulate all men, youths and boys on February 23, regardless of their involvement in military service. And this tradition has been preserved not only in Russia.
1. In Ukraine, this holiday has the same meaning as in Russia, but it is not a public holiday, therefore residents do not associate it with recreation and festive events.
2. In Tajikistan, February 23 is celebrated not only as the Defender of the Fatherland Day, but also as the Day of the Education of the Armed Forces of Tajikistan (since 1993).
3. The President of Belarus on Defender of the Fatherland Day solemnly lays a memorial wreath at the monument on Victory Square in Minsk. The ceremony is attended by dignitaries and representatives of churches. After the laying of wreaths, all those present honor the memory of the fallen soldiers with a minute of silence.
4. In Kyrgyzstan, February 23 remained a working day until 2004. Today, on this day, a solemn formation and a parade procession of the Kyrgyz troops take place.
5. In South Ossetia, this day is considered an official day off, moreover, during the week after February 23, memorable evenings and meetings with veterans are organized.
6. Celebrate Defender of the Fatherland Day and residents of Moldova. Festive events are held annually in Tiraspol with the participation of the head of the republic and representatives of law enforcement agencies.
7. In Armenia, February 23 is not a public holiday, but patriotic events and commemorative concerts are held in several cities, such as Yerevan and Gyumri.
8. In Abkhazia, this holiday is also not official. However, in Sukhumi, a wreath-laying ceremony is held annually at the monument to the Unknown Soldier.
9. In Latvia and Estonia, Defender of the Fatherland Day is celebrated only by the Russian-speaking population. In these countries, February 23 is not an official holiday.
