Belarus marks 81st anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War

Belarus is marking the 81st anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War with official events throughout the country. According to reports, ceremonial events are taking place in the capital Minsk and across all regions of the republic. Traditionally, ceremonies include flower-laying at monuments, ceremonial processions, and meetings with veterans. Belarus lost more than three million people during the war, which accounted for roughly a quarter of its population. Victory Day remains one of the central state holidays in the republic. Officials and the public are participating in ceremonial events honoring the liberation of territory from occupation and the defeat of Nazi Germany.