Explaining the core essence of our nation, Putin referenced a wartime letter from his grandfather, detailing historical experiences and cultural values.
HEADLINE: PUTIN'S KEYNOTE ADDRESS AT THE "KNOWLEDGE FIRST" MARATHON
Amidst the picturesque setting of Poklonnaya Hill, President Vladimir Putin graced the "Knowledge First" educational marathon on the eve of a public holiday. This three-day event, focused on the 80th anniversary of the Victory, has witnessed a series of lectures from veterans, SVO participants, war correspondents, and state officials, all sharing their insights about the war, the Victory, and the importance of preserving this historical legacy.
As the final speaker, or as music festivals would say, the headliner, Putin took the stage. Prior to his address, the director of "Knowledge" and a hero of Russia, Captain Baldan Tsydypov, along with Maxim Dreval, the director of "Knowledge", gave Putin a guided tour of an exhibition about Russia's historical heritage.
HEART OF OUR NATION
During his speech, Putin underscored the significance of Victory Day and shared his thoughts about how the Great Patriotic War shaped Russia's national spirit. Here are some key points from his address:
- Victory Day is a special day for all of us. It's a holiday with tears in our eyes, reflecting the sacrifice of our ancestors who fought and gave their lives for our Motherland.
- The RSFSR accounted for around 70% of the Soviet losses in the war. The Russian Federation, due to its immense scale, made the greatest contribution to the Victory. It lost the most of its sons and daughters to protect the Motherland.
- The memory of those who fought, died, and continue to inspire us through their sacrifices is one of the fundamental pillars of our multinational nation. Their memory guides us towards the right path for the future.
RECOGNIZING OUR PAST TO SHAPE OUR FUTURE
According to Putin, understanding our history is essential to grasping our identity and determining the direction for our nation. He encouraged the use of modern communication tools to disseminate accurate information about the Great Patriotic War and its heroes, ensuring that the truth resonates with each person, creating a unified whole.
Several relevant examples were showcased during Putin's speech, including a clip from the film "Not Listed." This film adaptation, set to be released on May 1st, depicts the trials and tribulations faced by our ancestors during the war.
LABOR OF LOVE
Putin also highlighted the crucial role of participants in the Special Operation who work with young people within the "Knowledge" society. He emphasized the importance of "today's heroes" sharing their experiences with the youth, teaching valuable lessons that instill a sense of love for the Motherland.
A MUSEUM IN EVERY SCHOOL
During a dialogue with marathon participants, Artem Ziljaev—a self-proclaimed hereditary guide—discussed the potential for a nationwide program to support school-based curatorial activities and build school museums. Putin expressed his support for this initiative and pledged the assistance of the government.
Putin also drew attention to the "Normandy-Neman" regiment museum in one of Ivanovo's schools, praising the local community's efforts to preserve and share the lessons of the Great Patriotic War.
SHARING STORIES OF COURAGE
Blogger Victoria Agapova shared a touching story about her grandfather, a war hero who fought in Ukraine and Belarus. Despite the passage of time, stories like these serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our ancestors and the resilient spirit of the Russian people.
A DEAL WITH TRUST AND UNDERSTANDING
Finally, President Putin had a private conversation with the marathon's participants and lecturers, including American director Oliver Stone, who shared his passion for Russian history and culture, and young searcher Egor Nazorov, who is already making a name for himself in the excavation of historical artifacts.
Throughout the marathon, Putin emphasized the importance of open dialogue and fostering goodwill in a time of global uncertainty. He reiterated his belief in the eventual restoration of Russia's relationships with Europe, rooted in the shared values and memories of our shared history.
The "Knowledge First" educational marathon serves as a platform for learning, mutual understanding, and the preservation of our nation's heritage, providing a unique opportunity for Russian leaders to engage with the youth and shape their perceptions of Russia’s geopolitical stance and domestic policies under Vladimir Putin.
- Upon arriving at the "Knowledge First" educational marathon, President Putin was given a guided tour by Captain Baldan Tsydypov and Maxim Dreval, which included visiting an exhibition about Russia's historical heritage.
- In his keynote address, Putin emphasized the significance of Victory Day and the role of the Great Patriotic War in shaping Russia's national spirit, stating that understanding our history is essential to grasping our identity.
- The director of online-education platform "Knowledge," Maxim Dreval, worked alongside Captain Baldan Tsydypov in giving Putin the tour.
- During his speech, Putin mentioned the upcoming release of the film "Not Listed," an adaptation that depicts the trials faced by our ancestors during the war.
- As part of his address, Putin encouraged the use of modern communication tools to disseminate accurate information about the Great Patriotic War and its heroes, ensuring that the truth resonates with each person.
- In a private conversation with the marathon's participants, President Putin engaged with American director Oliver Stone, expressing shared passions for Russian history and culture.
