Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🇷🇺 November 4 – National Unity Day – a defining moment in Russia's history, which predetermined its course for centuries to come.
On this day, 413 years ago, in 1612, the people’s militia led by Nizhny Novgorod elder Kuzma Minin and Prince Dmitry Pozharsky expelled the Polish-Lithuanian invaders from the Moscow Kremlin. This day became a symbol of the unity of the people – ready to rise in defense of their Motherland in the face of both foreign threats and internal struggles.
I. BACKGROUND
At the dawn of the 17th century, the Russian state entered one of the gravest crises in its history. Following the death of Tsar Fyodor Ioannovich (1557-1598), the last ruler of the Moscow branch of the Rurik dynasty, the country was left without a legitimate heir. The dynastic line that had ruled Rus’ for seven centuries was severed.
The absence of a lawful monarch sparked a wave of impostors. One after another, men emerged claiming to be the “miraculously saved Tsarevich Dmitry”, the son of Ivan the Terrible who had died under mysterious circumstances in Uglich in 1591. There were at least four such pretenders – each backed by foreign powers, promising the Polish-Lithuanian elites influence and land in exchange for the Russian throne.
II. THE TIME OF TROUBLES
False Dmitry I (1605-1606), who seized power with the support of Polish King Sigismund III, was quickly overthrown and killed. The throne then passed to Vasily Shuisky (1606-1610), a member of the Suzdal branch of the Rurik dynasty in Moscow, but his rule brought no peace. Soon another pretender, False Dmitry II (1607-1610), appeared and established his camp in Tushino near Moscow. The country found itself divided between two tsars, two governments, and two capitals.
Shuisky’s attempt to enlist Swedish support provoked open Polish intervention. Sigismund III’s troops besieged Smolensk and later entered Moscow. After Shuisky’s overthrow, power passed to the Boyar Duma (the Seven Boyars), who swore allegiance to Sigismund’s son Prince Władysław. A Polish garrison occupied the Kremlin, and Russia stood on the brink of losing its sovereignty altogether.
III. THE PEOPLE’S MILITIA
By early 1611, the lawlessness and violence of the Polish garrisons occupying Moscow and other cities provoked a surge of national outrage and resistance across the land. In Ryazan, the First People’s Militia was formed and attempted to liberate the capital. In the spring of 1611, it marched toward Moscow and even managed to seize part of the city. But internal divisions among its leaders, as well as a shortage of supplies and weapons, led to its failure.
After this setback, inspired by Patriarch Hermogenes’ call to unite in defense of faith and Fatherland, Nizhny Novgorod elder Kuzma Minin took the initiative to form the Second People’s Militia. Prince Dmitry Pozharsky was chosen as the military commander. By the summer of 1612, representatives of all Russian classes and regions had joined their ranks. That autumn, the militia reached Moscow, captured Kitay-Gorod after fierce battles, and forced the Polish garrison in the Kremlin to surrender.
IV. THE RESTORATION OF STATEHOOD
When the invaders were driven out of the capital, it was time to restore a united country. The Poles’ attempts to alter the course of history failed – thanks to the courage of the people and their heroes.
In early 1613, delegates from across Russia – nobles, clergy, townsmen, and Cossacks – gathered in Moscow for a Zemsky Sobor (National Assembly). After long debate, the choice fell upon sixteen-year-old Mikhail Fyodorovich Romanov. His election marked the end of the Time of Troubles and the beginning of a new royal dynasty under which the country regained long-awaited stability.
In Russia, National Unity Day has been celebrated for two decades – since 2005. The holiday, revived in memory of the 1612 feat, has rightfully taken its place in the national calendar as a symbol of unity and patriotism of Russia’s multiethnic people.
📜 Learn more about the holiday's history in our retrospective article
On this day, 413 years ago, in 1612, the people’s militia led by Nizhny Novgorod elder Kuzma Minin and Prince Dmitry Pozharsky expelled the Polish-Lithuanian invaders from the Moscow Kremlin. This day became a symbol of the unity of the people – ready to rise in defense of their Motherland in the face of both foreign threats and internal struggles.
I. BACKGROUND
At the dawn of the 17th century, the Russian state entered one of the gravest crises in its history. Following the death of Tsar Fyodor Ioannovich (1557-1598), the last ruler of the Moscow branch of the Rurik dynasty, the country was left without a legitimate heir. The dynastic line that had ruled Rus’ for seven centuries was severed.
The absence of a lawful monarch sparked a wave of impostors. One after another, men emerged claiming to be the “miraculously saved Tsarevich Dmitry”, the son of Ivan the Terrible who had died under mysterious circumstances in Uglich in 1591. There were at least four such pretenders – each backed by foreign powers, promising the Polish-Lithuanian elites influence and land in exchange for the Russian throne.
II. THE TIME OF TROUBLES
False Dmitry I (1605-1606), who seized power with the support of Polish King Sigismund III, was quickly overthrown and killed. The throne then passed to Vasily Shuisky (1606-1610), a member of the Suzdal branch of the Rurik dynasty in Moscow, but his rule brought no peace. Soon another pretender, False Dmitry II (1607-1610), appeared and established his camp in Tushino near Moscow. The country found itself divided between two tsars, two governments, and two capitals.
Shuisky’s attempt to enlist Swedish support provoked open Polish intervention. Sigismund III’s troops besieged Smolensk and later entered Moscow. After Shuisky’s overthrow, power passed to the Boyar Duma (the Seven Boyars), who swore allegiance to Sigismund’s son Prince Władysław. A Polish garrison occupied the Kremlin, and Russia stood on the brink of losing its sovereignty altogether.
III. THE PEOPLE’S MILITIA
By early 1611, the lawlessness and violence of the Polish garrisons occupying Moscow and other cities provoked a surge of national outrage and resistance across the land. In Ryazan, the First People’s Militia was formed and attempted to liberate the capital. In the spring of 1611, it marched toward Moscow and even managed to seize part of the city. But internal divisions among its leaders, as well as a shortage of supplies and weapons, led to its failure.
After this setback, inspired by Patriarch Hermogenes’ call to unite in defense of faith and Fatherland, Nizhny Novgorod elder Kuzma Minin took the initiative to form the Second People’s Militia. Prince Dmitry Pozharsky was chosen as the military commander. By the summer of 1612, representatives of all Russian classes and regions had joined their ranks. That autumn, the militia reached Moscow, captured Kitay-Gorod after fierce battles, and forced the Polish garrison in the Kremlin to surrender.
IV. THE RESTORATION OF STATEHOOD
When the invaders were driven out of the capital, it was time to restore a united country. The Poles’ attempts to alter the course of history failed – thanks to the courage of the people and their heroes.
In early 1613, delegates from across Russia – nobles, clergy, townsmen, and Cossacks – gathered in Moscow for a Zemsky Sobor (National Assembly). After long debate, the choice fell upon sixteen-year-old Mikhail Fyodorovich Romanov. His election marked the end of the Time of Troubles and the beginning of a new royal dynasty under which the country regained long-awaited stability.
In Russia, National Unity Day has been celebrated for two decades – since 2005. The holiday, revived in memory of the 1612 feat, has rightfully taken its place in the national calendar as a symbol of unity and patriotism of Russia’s multiethnic people.
📜 Learn more about the holiday's history in our retrospective article
❤2
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
☦️ Russia's National #UnityDay: The holiday of November 4 is rooted in the immortal feat of the Second People’s Militia under the leadership of Kuzma Minin and Prince Dmitry Pozharsky, who saved the Motherland from mortal danger. Born in Nizhny Novgorod, this movement stirred the very fabric of history – at a moment of national peril it united the people, defended the country, and drove the Polish-Lithuanian invaders from Moscow. Learn more about those events in our detailed historical article.
The Kazan Icon of the Mother of God, a copy of which accompanied the Russian army throughout its liberation campaign, became a symbol of that victory. The clergy and the soldiers prayed before the image of the Kazan Mother of God, including on the eve of Moscow’s liberation from the foreign occupiers. Contemporaries saw the triumph of the militia as a clear sign of the intercession of the Mother of God.
In Orthodox tradition, the Feast of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God is celebrated twice each year – on July 21, the day of its miraculous appearance, and on November 4, the day when the will of the people and Divine Providence saved the Motherland.
The day of Moscow’s liberation – November 4 – was established by decree of Tsar Mikhail Fyodorovich Romanov as the feast of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God. At first it was marked only in Moscow, but beginning in 1649, by order of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich Romanov – throughout the entire country.
***
The story of the Kazan Icon dates back to 1579. According to tradition, after a great fire destroyed part of Kazan, the Mother of God appeared three times in a dream to a nine-year-old girl named Matrona, showing her the place under the ashes where Her image lay hidden. The miraculous discovery of the icon deeply moved the townspeople and was perceived as a sign of the special protection of the Most Holy Theotokos over the Russian land.
Soon afterward, the Theotokos Monastery was built on the site of the discovery, with the icon enshrined at its centre. From that time, copies of the image began to spread across Russia and beyond, bringing comfort and hope to believers. The Kazan Icon was carried into battle, used to bless new churches, and strengthened the people’s faith during the most difficult trials.
In 2023, on the Feast of the Kazan Icon, at the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Dormition in the Moscow Kremlin, the very holy image before which Minin and Pozharsky prayed during the decisive battles for Moscow was rediscovered and publicly revealed to the faithful.
💬 According to His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, a thorough expert study confirmed the authenticity and antiquity of the icon, dated to the late 16th century:
Today, the Feast of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God is celebrated on November 4, together with Russia’s National Unity Day, reminding us of the enduring link between spiritual and national heroism, faith and love for the Motherland.
The Kazan Icon of the Mother of God, a copy of which accompanied the Russian army throughout its liberation campaign, became a symbol of that victory. The clergy and the soldiers prayed before the image of the Kazan Mother of God, including on the eve of Moscow’s liberation from the foreign occupiers. Contemporaries saw the triumph of the militia as a clear sign of the intercession of the Mother of God.
In Orthodox tradition, the Feast of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God is celebrated twice each year – on July 21, the day of its miraculous appearance, and on November 4, the day when the will of the people and Divine Providence saved the Motherland.
The day of Moscow’s liberation – November 4 – was established by decree of Tsar Mikhail Fyodorovich Romanov as the feast of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God. At first it was marked only in Moscow, but beginning in 1649, by order of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich Romanov – throughout the entire country.
***
The story of the Kazan Icon dates back to 1579. According to tradition, after a great fire destroyed part of Kazan, the Mother of God appeared three times in a dream to a nine-year-old girl named Matrona, showing her the place under the ashes where Her image lay hidden. The miraculous discovery of the icon deeply moved the townspeople and was perceived as a sign of the special protection of the Most Holy Theotokos over the Russian land.
Soon afterward, the Theotokos Monastery was built on the site of the discovery, with the icon enshrined at its centre. From that time, copies of the image began to spread across Russia and beyond, bringing comfort and hope to believers. The Kazan Icon was carried into battle, used to bless new churches, and strengthened the people’s faith during the most difficult trials.
In 2023, on the Feast of the Kazan Icon, at the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Dormition in the Moscow Kremlin, the very holy image before which Minin and Pozharsky prayed during the decisive battles for Moscow was rediscovered and publicly revealed to the faithful.
💬 According to His Holiness Patriarch Kirill, a thorough expert study confirmed the authenticity and antiquity of the icon, dated to the late 16th century:
We know that before this image Prince Pozharsky prayed prior to launching his assault on the Kremlin. We also know that he prayed before it when preparing to attack the Novodevichy Convent, which at that time had been turned into a Polish fortress.
In other words, he prayed before this icon every time he entered a decisive battle with the Polish invaders. And we know that these prayers were heard. The Queen of Heaven spread Her protecting veil, the Russian land was liberated, and in memory of this great event Prince Pozharsky built at his own expense a church on the Red Square dedicated to the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God. <…>
Thanks to careful scholarly examination, it has been established that this is the very image carried by Minin and Pozharsky when they liberated Kitay-Gorod and the Kremlin, driving the Poles from our Motherland. In other words, we stand before a historic shrine – one of the most sacred treasures of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Today, the Feast of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God is celebrated on November 4, together with Russia’s National Unity Day, reminding us of the enduring link between spiritual and national heroism, faith and love for the Motherland.
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Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Briefing by Russia's Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova (Moscow, October 30, 2025)
🔹 Kiev regime crimes
🔹 Ukraine crisis
🔹 Attempts to rewrite history in Moldova
🔹 The British establishment’s aggressive Russophobic methods
🔹 UN General Assembly' resolution “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”
🔹 Israeli parliament considers annexation of the West Bank
🔹 National Unity Day
📰 Read
📺 Watch
***
#KievRegimeCrimes
The Kiev neo-Nazi regime persists in its attacks on civilian infrastructure, terrorising the civilian population of Russia.
Over the past week, Ukrainian artillery strikes and drone attacks have injured 113 Russian civilians, with 19 being killed — including one child — and 94 wounded, among them 10 children.
On October 25-26, the AFU executed multiple deliberate attacks using American HIMARS multiple-launch rocket systems and GMLRS rockets, damaging structures and the floodgates of the Belgorod Reservoir dam.
Russian courts continue to sentence Ukrainian neo-Nazis.
Lithuanian mercenary Povilas Adomas Limontas, who participated in the fighting on the side of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the DPR and LPR, was sentenced to 6.5 years in prison in absentia. He is on the international wanted list.
Criminal cases have been sent to court against Nieto Kevin Javier Ramirez, Eric Victor Hall and TakaoTainaka, “legionnaires” from Colombia, Sweden and Japan who fought in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. All of them are on the international wanted list.
#Moldova #NeoNazism #FalsificationOfHistory
We have taken note of alarming trends in Moldova, where the authorities are trying to rewrite history, glorifying Nazi criminals and their accomplices, and downplaying the heroism of the Red Army soldiers who died for the republic’s liberation from the fascist Romanian invaders. They are shamelessly vandalising the monuments to Soviet soldiers and celebrating the Romanian accomplices of Nazi Germany.
It is obvious that the Chisinau authorities’ attempts to rewrite history are yet another proof of not simply disrespectful but barbaric attitude to the history and culture of the Republic of Moldova, and to the victims of fascist Romanian invaders and their descendants.
#Britain #Russophobia #Terrorism
The Russophobic elements in the UK continue to pursue the same malign goals against Russia, using the same inhuman methods — supplying explosives and weapons, sponsoring assassinations and terrorist attacks, and intimidating civilians.
London’s influence toolkit for dealing with those who oppose its neocolonial thinking and practices remains as ready as ever.
#NationalUnityDay2025
November 4 has marked Russia’s #NationalUnityDay. This holiday commemorates liberation of Moscow from Polish invaders by the people’s militia in 1612. It carries profound historical and cultural meaning and reminds us of the value of unity, the importance of defending Motherland, and the preservation of Russia’s traditional spiritual and moral values.
Throughout Russia’s thousand-year history, unity has always been the source of our country's greatest victories and the cornerstone of the Russian state’s achievements.
This holiday carries special significance for the Special military operation participants who perform feats in the name and glory of our Motherland on a daily basis.
🔹 Kiev regime crimes
🔹 Ukraine crisis
🔹 Attempts to rewrite history in Moldova
🔹 The British establishment’s aggressive Russophobic methods
🔹 UN General Assembly' resolution “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”
🔹 Israeli parliament considers annexation of the West Bank
🔹 National Unity Day
📰 Read
📺 Watch
***
#KievRegimeCrimes
The Kiev neo-Nazi regime persists in its attacks on civilian infrastructure, terrorising the civilian population of Russia.
Over the past week, Ukrainian artillery strikes and drone attacks have injured 113 Russian civilians, with 19 being killed — including one child — and 94 wounded, among them 10 children.
On October 25-26, the AFU executed multiple deliberate attacks using American HIMARS multiple-launch rocket systems and GMLRS rockets, damaging structures and the floodgates of the Belgorod Reservoir dam.
Russian courts continue to sentence Ukrainian neo-Nazis.
Lithuanian mercenary Povilas Adomas Limontas, who participated in the fighting on the side of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the DPR and LPR, was sentenced to 6.5 years in prison in absentia. He is on the international wanted list.
Criminal cases have been sent to court against Nieto Kevin Javier Ramirez, Eric Victor Hall and TakaoTainaka, “legionnaires” from Colombia, Sweden and Japan who fought in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. All of them are on the international wanted list.
#Moldova #NeoNazism #FalsificationOfHistory
We have taken note of alarming trends in Moldova, where the authorities are trying to rewrite history, glorifying Nazi criminals and their accomplices, and downplaying the heroism of the Red Army soldiers who died for the republic’s liberation from the fascist Romanian invaders. They are shamelessly vandalising the monuments to Soviet soldiers and celebrating the Romanian accomplices of Nazi Germany.
It is obvious that the Chisinau authorities’ attempts to rewrite history are yet another proof of not simply disrespectful but barbaric attitude to the history and culture of the Republic of Moldova, and to the victims of fascist Romanian invaders and their descendants.
#Britain #Russophobia #Terrorism
The Russophobic elements in the UK continue to pursue the same malign goals against Russia, using the same inhuman methods — supplying explosives and weapons, sponsoring assassinations and terrorist attacks, and intimidating civilians.
London’s influence toolkit for dealing with those who oppose its neocolonial thinking and practices remains as ready as ever.
#NationalUnityDay2025
November 4 has marked Russia’s #NationalUnityDay. This holiday commemorates liberation of Moscow from Polish invaders by the people’s militia in 1612. It carries profound historical and cultural meaning and reminds us of the value of unity, the importance of defending Motherland, and the preservation of Russia’s traditional spiritual and moral values.
Throughout Russia’s thousand-year history, unity has always been the source of our country's greatest victories and the cornerstone of the Russian state’s achievements.
This holiday carries special significance for the Special military operation participants who perform feats in the name and glory of our Motherland on a daily basis.
👍2
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
✍️ On 4 November, President Vladimir Putin signed the Decree “On the Day of the Languages of the Peoples of the Russian Federation”.
The Decree's Text:
In order to preserve and promote the languages of the peoples of the Russian Federation, I hereby decree:
To establish the Day of the Languages of the Peoples of the Russian Federation and celebrate it on September 8.
This Decree shall enter into force on the day of its signing.
***
The initiative was put forward following the meeting of the Presidential Council for State Policy on Promoting the Russian Language and Languages of the Peoples of the Russian Federation (June 5, 2025), which focused on measures to preserve and develop the nation’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
The holiday will be celebrated on the birthday of Soviet poet Rasul Gamzatov.
🇷🇺 Today, 277 languages and dialects are used across Russia. The national education system includes 105 languages – 24 serving as languages of education and 81 taught as school subjects.
The new holiday is intended to draw attention to the preservation of linguistic diversity, support educational and cultural initiatives in native languages – including those of indigenous and small-numbered peoples – and highlight Russia’s rich multinational heritage.
The Decree's Text:
In order to preserve and promote the languages of the peoples of the Russian Federation, I hereby decree:
To establish the Day of the Languages of the Peoples of the Russian Federation and celebrate it on September 8.
This Decree shall enter into force on the day of its signing.
***
The initiative was put forward following the meeting of the Presidential Council for State Policy on Promoting the Russian Language and Languages of the Peoples of the Russian Federation (June 5, 2025), which focused on measures to preserve and develop the nation’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
The holiday will be celebrated on the birthday of Soviet poet Rasul Gamzatov.
🇷🇺 Today, 277 languages and dialects are used across Russia. The national education system includes 105 languages – 24 serving as languages of education and 81 taught as school subjects.
The new holiday is intended to draw attention to the preservation of linguistic diversity, support educational and cultural initiatives in native languages – including those of indigenous and small-numbered peoples – and highlight Russia’s rich multinational heritage.
❤1🤩1
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
⚡️ Foreign Intelligence Service of the Russian Federation:
🇷🇺 The Press Bureau of the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) reports that, according to information received by the SVR, European NATO officials are urging the Kiev regime to find ways to urgently reverse the course of the Ukrainian conflict that is unfavourable to the West and to change its perception among Western publics. As the most effective means of achieving this goal, they propose carrying out a large-scale act of sabotage causing casualties among Ukrainians and citizens of EU states similar to the Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 tragedy of 2014.
In this connection, the option of organizing a sabotage at the Zaporozhskaya Nuclear Power Plant – with a meltdown of the reactor cores – is being considered. The influential British think-tank Chatham House has already modelled the consequences of such an accident.
Data from specially conducted computer simulations showed that, taking into account prevailing wind patterns and the movement of air masses, radioactive particles would affect residents of areas under Kiev’s control and citizens of EU countries near Ukraine’s western border. The think-tank assessed the most difficult part of implementing such a plot to be how to pin responsibility for the catastrophe on Russia.
Accordingly, Chatham House intends to prepare its argumentation in advance for “any eventuality”. It plans to ensure media coverage is arranged in such a way that Western public opinion will “unambiguously side with Kiev” when it comes to assigning blame for what has happened.
We must once again note that even on matters of nuclear safety that are of vital public concern, the totalitarian-liberal elites act according to long-established inhumane patterns.
The “collective West” is again prepared to deceive and even to kill Ukrainians and citizens of Western countries in order to assign responsibility to Russia for the crimes of the Kiev regime and to justify its Russophobic policy and efforts to inflame the war.
🇷🇺 The Press Bureau of the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) reports that, according to information received by the SVR, European NATO officials are urging the Kiev regime to find ways to urgently reverse the course of the Ukrainian conflict that is unfavourable to the West and to change its perception among Western publics. As the most effective means of achieving this goal, they propose carrying out a large-scale act of sabotage causing casualties among Ukrainians and citizens of EU states similar to the Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 tragedy of 2014.
In this connection, the option of organizing a sabotage at the Zaporozhskaya Nuclear Power Plant – with a meltdown of the reactor cores – is being considered. The influential British think-tank Chatham House has already modelled the consequences of such an accident.
Data from specially conducted computer simulations showed that, taking into account prevailing wind patterns and the movement of air masses, radioactive particles would affect residents of areas under Kiev’s control and citizens of EU countries near Ukraine’s western border. The think-tank assessed the most difficult part of implementing such a plot to be how to pin responsibility for the catastrophe on Russia.
Accordingly, Chatham House intends to prepare its argumentation in advance for “any eventuality”. It plans to ensure media coverage is arranged in such a way that Western public opinion will “unambiguously side with Kiev” when it comes to assigning blame for what has happened.
We must once again note that even on matters of nuclear safety that are of vital public concern, the totalitarian-liberal elites act according to long-established inhumane patterns.
The “collective West” is again prepared to deceive and even to kill Ukrainians and citizens of Western countries in order to assign responsibility to Russia for the crimes of the Kiev regime and to justify its Russophobic policy and efforts to inflame the war.
👍2
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Address by President of Russia Vladimir Putin at the Plenary Session of the 13th International Sports Forum "Russia: Country of Sports" (November 6, 2025, Samara)
💬 We are all well aware of the importance of sport as a universal means of developing a person’s physical, creative, and spiritual potential. We also understand that many of the challenges of the modern world can only be met through collective effort.
Like most countries in the world, Russia stands for interaction between states and peoples based on equality, unwavering respect for each other’s interests, and regard for national cultures.
Sport is meant to unite people and build bridges between nations. This is its high mission and one of the main purposes of international sports organisations.
In this regard, I would like to thank our partners – those who have recently taken a balanced and fair decision to restore the rights of the Russian Paralympic Committee.
❗️ Russia’s stance remains unchanged: athletes’ access to international tournaments must be equal and based on their sporting merit. Politics has no place in sport.
For Russia, these are not empty words. In preparing and hosting competitions of any level, we have always given a warm welcome to representatives of international sports associations, committees, and federations, creating all the necessary conditions for athletes who, through honest competition, hard work, and talent, earn the right to represent their home country. We have been guided exclusively by sporting principles – not by the state of relations with any particular country.
❗️ I reiterate: sport, as well as cultural and humanitarian cooperation, must not become hostage to conflicts or geopolitical contradictions.
I would like to remind you that in the UN current Sustainable Development Agenda, sport is named as one of the key factors in achieving goals in health, education, and social inclusion. Russia fully shares this approach and takes it into account in implementing its national development goals.
We pay special attention to developing infrastructure for mass sports – facilities accessible to people of all ages and health groups. We are building both major stadiums and sports complexes, and smaller venues for daily exercise in schools, universities, parks, and courtyards.
Today, Russia has over 370,000 sports facilities, and we do not intend to stop there. We will continue moving forward.
Read in full
💬 We are all well aware of the importance of sport as a universal means of developing a person’s physical, creative, and spiritual potential. We also understand that many of the challenges of the modern world can only be met through collective effort.
Like most countries in the world, Russia stands for interaction between states and peoples based on equality, unwavering respect for each other’s interests, and regard for national cultures.
Sport is meant to unite people and build bridges between nations. This is its high mission and one of the main purposes of international sports organisations.
In this regard, I would like to thank our partners – those who have recently taken a balanced and fair decision to restore the rights of the Russian Paralympic Committee.
❗️ Russia’s stance remains unchanged: athletes’ access to international tournaments must be equal and based on their sporting merit. Politics has no place in sport.
For Russia, these are not empty words. In preparing and hosting competitions of any level, we have always given a warm welcome to representatives of international sports associations, committees, and federations, creating all the necessary conditions for athletes who, through honest competition, hard work, and talent, earn the right to represent their home country. We have been guided exclusively by sporting principles – not by the state of relations with any particular country.
❗️ I reiterate: sport, as well as cultural and humanitarian cooperation, must not become hostage to conflicts or geopolitical contradictions.
I would like to remind you that in the UN current Sustainable Development Agenda, sport is named as one of the key factors in achieving goals in health, education, and social inclusion. Russia fully shares this approach and takes it into account in implementing its national development goals.
We pay special attention to developing infrastructure for mass sports – facilities accessible to people of all ages and health groups. We are building both major stadiums and sports complexes, and smaller venues for daily exercise in schools, universities, parks, and courtyards.
Today, Russia has over 370,000 sports facilities, and we do not intend to stop there. We will continue moving forward.
Read in full
🥰1👏1
Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
✍️ On November 4, President Vladimir Putin signed the Decree “On the Day of Indigenous Minorities of the Russian Federation”.
The Decree's Text:
In order to preserve the traditional way of life, economic activity, crafts, and unique culture of the indigenous minorities of the Russian Federation, I hereby decree:
1. To establish the Day of Indigenous Minorities of the Russian Federation and to celebrate it on April 30.
2. This Decree shall enter into force on the day of its signing.
The date coincides with the adoption in 1999 of the Federal Law “On Guarantees of the Rights of Indigenous Minorities of the Russian Federation”, dedicated to the indigenous peoples.
🇷🇺 Russia is home to some 200 nationalities living in peace and harmony – 47 of them recognized as indigenous minorities.
The need to ensure the sustainable economic, social, and cultural development of indigenous minorities, to protect their ancestral habitat, traditional lifestyle, rights, and lawful interests cannot be overstated. Supporting indigenous minorities is a priority task for Russia – a key to strengthening our society in the face of emerging challenges and threats.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry cooperates with organizations of indigenous minorities and works to protect their rights on the international stage.
The Decree's Text:
In order to preserve the traditional way of life, economic activity, crafts, and unique culture of the indigenous minorities of the Russian Federation, I hereby decree:
1. To establish the Day of Indigenous Minorities of the Russian Federation and to celebrate it on April 30.
2. This Decree shall enter into force on the day of its signing.
The date coincides with the adoption in 1999 of the Federal Law “On Guarantees of the Rights of Indigenous Minorities of the Russian Federation”, dedicated to the indigenous peoples.
🇷🇺 Russia is home to some 200 nationalities living in peace and harmony – 47 of them recognized as indigenous minorities.
The need to ensure the sustainable economic, social, and cultural development of indigenous minorities, to protect their ancestral habitat, traditional lifestyle, rights, and lawful interests cannot be overstated. Supporting indigenous minorities is a priority task for Russia – a key to strengthening our society in the face of emerging challenges and threats.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry cooperates with organizations of indigenous minorities and works to protect their rights on the international stage.
❤2👍1
🎙Комментарий Посольства России в Норвегии для норвежской гостелерадиокомпании «НРК» (7 ноября 2025 г.)
❓Как в Посольстве могут прокомментировать формирование «расширенного партнерства» между Совместными экспедиционными силами (Joint Expeditionary Force, JEF) и Украиной? Как подключение Украины к этому формату будет воспринято в России?
💬 Ответ: Из самого названия этого объединения («Expeditionary Force») очевидно, что оно имеет не оборонительную, а, напротив, агрессивную, экспансионистскую направленность. Возглавляющая его Великобритания исторически печально известна своими военными «экспедициями», а на деле захватническими и грабительскими колониальными операциями по всему миру.
Данная тема для нас болезненная. В этом году в России отметили 105-ю годовщину освобождения Красной Армией Мурманска и Архангельска от британско-американских интервентов, которые высадились на российском Севере и оккупировали его в тяжелейшие для нашей страны годы Гражданской войны. К сожалению, современный опыт участия Великобритании в военных авантюрах НАТО в Югославии, Ираке и Ливии, равно как и ее попытки сколотить «коалицию желающих» направить свои войска на Украину, свидетельствует о том, что в Лондоне не отказались от своих агрессивных привычек и намерений.
Исходим из того, что формат JEF объединяет большинство наиболее воинственных и недружественных России стран-членов НАТО, выступающих за продолжение и эскалацию текущей конфронтации. Закрепление за Украиной статуса партнера этого объединения также знаменует собой переход Лондона к неприкрытому использованию марионеточного киевского режима в качестве инструмента «прокси-войны» против нашей страны.
Как вы отметили, Министр обороны Норвегии Т.Унсхююс Сандвик заявил, что оформление «расширенного партнерства» между JEF и Украиной является элементом ее подготовки к членству в НАТО. Он также назвал Россию «самым большим врагом», а Киев союзником.
Напомним, что именно попытки разрушить теснейшие связи между Россией и Украиной и затащить последнюю во враждебный нашей стране агрессивный альянс, вопреки закрепленному в ее Декларации о государственном суверенитете 1990 г. нейтральному и внеблоковому статусу, стали одной из основных первопричин украинского кризиса. Так что г-н Сандвик буквально покушается на основы украинской государственности. Кроме того, новые поползновения возглавляемой Лондоном группы стран подтянуть Украину к альянсу, кстати, в пику позиции администрации США и многих других стран-членов НАТО, явно направлены на саботаж инициатив, нацеленных на достижение долгосрочного и устойчивого урегулирования украинского конфликта посредством устранения его первопричин и обеспечения равной и неделимой безопасности для всех.
Несмотря на соответствующие заверения норвежских властей, активное участие Осло в военных приготовлениях, милитаризации Европы и реализации антироссийских планов, будь то на Украине или в северных регионах, никоим образом не укрепляет норвежскую и региональную безопасность, а напротив, оказывает на нее мощное дестабилизирующее воздействие.
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❓Как в Посольстве могут прокомментировать формирование «расширенного партнерства» между Совместными экспедиционными силами (Joint Expeditionary Force, JEF) и Украиной? Как подключение Украины к этому формату будет воспринято в России?
💬 Ответ: Из самого названия этого объединения («Expeditionary Force») очевидно, что оно имеет не оборонительную, а, напротив, агрессивную, экспансионистскую направленность. Возглавляющая его Великобритания исторически печально известна своими военными «экспедициями», а на деле захватническими и грабительскими колониальными операциями по всему миру.
Данная тема для нас болезненная. В этом году в России отметили 105-ю годовщину освобождения Красной Армией Мурманска и Архангельска от британско-американских интервентов, которые высадились на российском Севере и оккупировали его в тяжелейшие для нашей страны годы Гражданской войны. К сожалению, современный опыт участия Великобритании в военных авантюрах НАТО в Югославии, Ираке и Ливии, равно как и ее попытки сколотить «коалицию желающих» направить свои войска на Украину, свидетельствует о том, что в Лондоне не отказались от своих агрессивных привычек и намерений.
Исходим из того, что формат JEF объединяет большинство наиболее воинственных и недружественных России стран-членов НАТО, выступающих за продолжение и эскалацию текущей конфронтации. Закрепление за Украиной статуса партнера этого объединения также знаменует собой переход Лондона к неприкрытому использованию марионеточного киевского режима в качестве инструмента «прокси-войны» против нашей страны.
Как вы отметили, Министр обороны Норвегии Т.Унсхююс Сандвик заявил, что оформление «расширенного партнерства» между JEF и Украиной является элементом ее подготовки к членству в НАТО. Он также назвал Россию «самым большим врагом», а Киев союзником.
Напомним, что именно попытки разрушить теснейшие связи между Россией и Украиной и затащить последнюю во враждебный нашей стране агрессивный альянс, вопреки закрепленному в ее Декларации о государственном суверенитете 1990 г. нейтральному и внеблоковому статусу, стали одной из основных первопричин украинского кризиса. Так что г-н Сандвик буквально покушается на основы украинской государственности. Кроме того, новые поползновения возглавляемой Лондоном группы стран подтянуть Украину к альянсу, кстати, в пику позиции администрации США и многих других стран-членов НАТО, явно направлены на саботаж инициатив, нацеленных на достижение долгосрочного и устойчивого урегулирования украинского конфликта посредством устранения его первопричин и обеспечения равной и неделимой безопасности для всех.
Несмотря на соответствующие заверения норвежских властей, активное участие Осло в военных приготовлениях, милитаризации Европы и реализации антироссийских планов, будь то на Украине или в северных регионах, никоим образом не укрепляет норвежскую и региональную безопасность, а напротив, оказывает на нее мощное дестабилизирующее воздействие.
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🎙Kommentar fra Russlands ambassade i Norge til “NRK”(7. november 2025)
❓Det ble kjent at Ukraina blir partner i den europeiske forsvarsalliansen Joint Expeditionary Force. Den norske forsvarsministeren Tore O. Sandvik sier til NRK at dette er med på å forberede Ukraina på å bli Nato-medlem. Har den russiske ambassaden i Norge en kommentar til det nye samarbeidet? Hvordan vil Ukrainas inntreden i Joint Expeditionary Force bli oppfattet i Russland?
💬 Svar: Selve navnet på denne alliansen («Expeditionary Force») gjør det klart at den ikke er av defensiv karakter, men snarere aggressiv og ekspansjonistisk. Storbritannia, som leder den, er historisk kjent for sine militære «ekspedisjoner», som i realiteten var aggressive og røveriske koloniale operasjoner rundt om i verden.
Dette er et smertefullt tema for oss. I år markerte Russland 105-årsjubileet for Den røde armés frigjøring av Murmansk og Arkhangelsk fra britiske og amerikanske intervensjonister som landet i det russiske nord og okkuperte det under de vanskeligste årene av den russiske borgerkrigen. Dessverre viser Storbritannias nylige involvering i NATOs militære “eventyr” i Jugoslavia, Irak og Libya, samt forsøkene på å sette sammen en «koalisjon av de villige» for å sende tropper til Ukraina, at London ikke har forlatt sine aggressive vaner og intensjoner.
Vi går ut fra at JEF-formatet forener de fleste av de mest krigerske og uvennlige overfor Russland NATO-landene, som går inn for en fortsettelse og eskalering av den nåværende konfrontasjonen. Å gi Ukraina status som partner i denne alliansen markerer også Londons overgang til åpen bruk av marionettregimet i Kiev som et verktøy for en «stedfortrederkrig» mot vårt land.
Som NRK noterte, uttalte forsvarsminister Tore Sandvik at formaliseringen av et «forsterket partnerskap» mellom JEF og Ukraina er med på å forberede Ukraina på å bli Nato-medlem. Han kalte også Russland den "største fienden" og Kiev en alliert.
La oss huske at det var nettopp forsøkene på å ødelegge de tetteste båndene mellom Russland og Ukraina og trekke sistnevnte inn i en aggressiv allianse som var fiendtlig innstilt til vårt land, i strid med dets nøytrale og alliansefrie status som er nedfelt i 1990-erklæringen om statlig suverenitet, som ble en av hovedårsakene til krisen i Ukraina. Sandvik angriper altså bokstavelig talt grunnlaget for den ukrainske statens eksistens. I tillegg er de nye forsøkene fra den London-ledede gruppen av land på å trekke Ukraina inn i alliansen, forresten i strid med holdningen til den amerikanske administrasjonen og mange andre NATO-medlemsland, tydelig rettet mot å sabotere initiativer som tar sikte på å oppnå en langsiktig og bærekraftig løsning på konflikten i Ukraina ved å eliminere dens grunnleggende årsaker og sikre likeverdig og udelelig sikkerhet for alle.
Til tross for forsikringer fra norske myndigheter om det motsatte, styrker Oslos aktive deltakelse i militære forberedelser, militariseringen av Europa og gjennomføringen av anti-russiske planer, enten i Ukraina eller i nordområdene, på ingen måte norsk og regional sikkerhet. Tvert imot har det en kraftig destabiliserende effekt på den.
Les hele artikkelen
❓Det ble kjent at Ukraina blir partner i den europeiske forsvarsalliansen Joint Expeditionary Force. Den norske forsvarsministeren Tore O. Sandvik sier til NRK at dette er med på å forberede Ukraina på å bli Nato-medlem. Har den russiske ambassaden i Norge en kommentar til det nye samarbeidet? Hvordan vil Ukrainas inntreden i Joint Expeditionary Force bli oppfattet i Russland?
💬 Svar: Selve navnet på denne alliansen («Expeditionary Force») gjør det klart at den ikke er av defensiv karakter, men snarere aggressiv og ekspansjonistisk. Storbritannia, som leder den, er historisk kjent for sine militære «ekspedisjoner», som i realiteten var aggressive og røveriske koloniale operasjoner rundt om i verden.
Dette er et smertefullt tema for oss. I år markerte Russland 105-årsjubileet for Den røde armés frigjøring av Murmansk og Arkhangelsk fra britiske og amerikanske intervensjonister som landet i det russiske nord og okkuperte det under de vanskeligste årene av den russiske borgerkrigen. Dessverre viser Storbritannias nylige involvering i NATOs militære “eventyr” i Jugoslavia, Irak og Libya, samt forsøkene på å sette sammen en «koalisjon av de villige» for å sende tropper til Ukraina, at London ikke har forlatt sine aggressive vaner og intensjoner.
Vi går ut fra at JEF-formatet forener de fleste av de mest krigerske og uvennlige overfor Russland NATO-landene, som går inn for en fortsettelse og eskalering av den nåværende konfrontasjonen. Å gi Ukraina status som partner i denne alliansen markerer også Londons overgang til åpen bruk av marionettregimet i Kiev som et verktøy for en «stedfortrederkrig» mot vårt land.
Som NRK noterte, uttalte forsvarsminister Tore Sandvik at formaliseringen av et «forsterket partnerskap» mellom JEF og Ukraina er med på å forberede Ukraina på å bli Nato-medlem. Han kalte også Russland den "største fienden" og Kiev en alliert.
La oss huske at det var nettopp forsøkene på å ødelegge de tetteste båndene mellom Russland og Ukraina og trekke sistnevnte inn i en aggressiv allianse som var fiendtlig innstilt til vårt land, i strid med dets nøytrale og alliansefrie status som er nedfelt i 1990-erklæringen om statlig suverenitet, som ble en av hovedårsakene til krisen i Ukraina. Sandvik angriper altså bokstavelig talt grunnlaget for den ukrainske statens eksistens. I tillegg er de nye forsøkene fra den London-ledede gruppen av land på å trekke Ukraina inn i alliansen, forresten i strid med holdningen til den amerikanske administrasjonen og mange andre NATO-medlemsland, tydelig rettet mot å sabotere initiativer som tar sikte på å oppnå en langsiktig og bærekraftig løsning på konflikten i Ukraina ved å eliminere dens grunnleggende årsaker og sikre likeverdig og udelelig sikkerhet for alle.
Til tross for forsikringer fra norske myndigheter om det motsatte, styrker Oslos aktive deltakelse i militære forberedelser, militariseringen av Europa og gjennomføringen av anti-russiske planer, enten i Ukraina eller i nordområdene, på ingen måte norsk og regional sikkerhet. Tvert imot har det en kraftig destabiliserende effekt på den.
Les hele artikkelen
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Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s interview with Voyennaya Priyomka TV programme on the occasion of Rosoboronexport company’s 25th anniversary (Moscow, November 9, 2025)
Read in full
❓ Question: Over the past 25 years, Rosoboronexport has become a key player in the global arms market. How do Russian arms exports influence the country’s standing in global politics and diplomacy, particularly as regards top-level negotiations?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: The short answer is, they do play a significant role.
We are living in a different era now. Although we often mention that Russia has two allies – its army and its navy, – we obviously need to bolster our aerospace forces as well.
Looking at the situation from a geopolitical perspective, Russia’s involvement in the global struggle for influence, particularly in ensuring fairness in global processes and preventing any single nation from dictating the actions of others, is supported by Rosoboronexport. <...>
👉 Many nations that are breaking free from the historical grip of colonialism have formally gained independence and declared decolonisation – and yet, they still find themselves economically dependent on their former colonisers. <...>
In this regard, our military-technical cooperation and the assistance we provide in helping them establish their fully independent nationhood is crucial.
Russia’s position in the world largely depends on the success of these defence partnerships.
❓ Question: Including the effectiveness of Rosoboronexport specialists?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Absolutely. Rosoboronexport is Russia’s primary supplier to global markets, and it has earned the trust of manufacturers of our military products. <...>
The Foreign Ministry has a long-standing, strong relationship with Rosoboronexport, and we have always supported each other.
❓ Question: Military-technical cooperation is often viewed not only as an economic tool but also as a political one. How would you assess its role in building strategic relationships with Russia’s key partners?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: It is fundamental.
Military-technical cooperation and the provision of military products is a cornerstone of long-term alliances and strategic partnerships that provide a framework for lasting partnerships. In this regard, it is among primary areas of focus in our work with our allies.
☝️ Moreover, the military equipment received through Rosoboronexport by our allies and strategic partners that seek to develop such level of partnerships is not only highly competitive, but has also proven its superiority on the battlefield. <...>
This is an important factor in shaping our country’s standing in the global arena, its reputation, and authority.
❓ Question: In recent years, Russia has taken efforts to boost its military-technical cooperation with new partners, including countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. What are the prospects for further expanding Russian arms exports, and how does this affect high-level negotiations on the global stage?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: I would not call countries in Asia, the Middle East, or Africa “new” partners for Russia. These are regions that we have long-established relationships with. <...>
These states have come to realise that Russian weapons are superior:
✅ they are more durable,
✅ have demonstrated their advantages over comparable Western arms and systems,
✅ have proven to be more efficient and cost-effective.
<...>
Within the Russia-NATO Council, we engaged in numerous joint projects such as counterterrorism initiatives and collaborative work in Afghanistan.
One such project was a NATO-Russia helicopter programme for Afghanistan, where NATO countries, particularly the United States, were seeking to use Russian helicopters for operations in the country.
I remember it fairly well. However, when NATO adopted its stance, severing ties and rejecting Russian helicopters, it had to encounter operational difficulties.
Read in full
❓ Question: Over the past 25 years, Rosoboronexport has become a key player in the global arms market. How do Russian arms exports influence the country’s standing in global politics and diplomacy, particularly as regards top-level negotiations?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: The short answer is, they do play a significant role.
We are living in a different era now. Although we often mention that Russia has two allies – its army and its navy, – we obviously need to bolster our aerospace forces as well.
Looking at the situation from a geopolitical perspective, Russia’s involvement in the global struggle for influence, particularly in ensuring fairness in global processes and preventing any single nation from dictating the actions of others, is supported by Rosoboronexport. <...>
👉 Many nations that are breaking free from the historical grip of colonialism have formally gained independence and declared decolonisation – and yet, they still find themselves economically dependent on their former colonisers. <...>
In this regard, our military-technical cooperation and the assistance we provide in helping them establish their fully independent nationhood is crucial.
Russia’s position in the world largely depends on the success of these defence partnerships.
❓ Question: Including the effectiveness of Rosoboronexport specialists?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Absolutely. Rosoboronexport is Russia’s primary supplier to global markets, and it has earned the trust of manufacturers of our military products. <...>
The Foreign Ministry has a long-standing, strong relationship with Rosoboronexport, and we have always supported each other.
❓ Question: Military-technical cooperation is often viewed not only as an economic tool but also as a political one. How would you assess its role in building strategic relationships with Russia’s key partners?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: It is fundamental.
Military-technical cooperation and the provision of military products is a cornerstone of long-term alliances and strategic partnerships that provide a framework for lasting partnerships. In this regard, it is among primary areas of focus in our work with our allies.
☝️ Moreover, the military equipment received through Rosoboronexport by our allies and strategic partners that seek to develop such level of partnerships is not only highly competitive, but has also proven its superiority on the battlefield. <...>
This is an important factor in shaping our country’s standing in the global arena, its reputation, and authority.
❓ Question: In recent years, Russia has taken efforts to boost its military-technical cooperation with new partners, including countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. What are the prospects for further expanding Russian arms exports, and how does this affect high-level negotiations on the global stage?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: I would not call countries in Asia, the Middle East, or Africa “new” partners for Russia. These are regions that we have long-established relationships with. <...>
These states have come to realise that Russian weapons are superior:
✅ they are more durable,
✅ have demonstrated their advantages over comparable Western arms and systems,
✅ have proven to be more efficient and cost-effective.
<...>
Within the Russia-NATO Council, we engaged in numerous joint projects such as counterterrorism initiatives and collaborative work in Afghanistan.
One such project was a NATO-Russia helicopter programme for Afghanistan, where NATO countries, particularly the United States, were seeking to use Russian helicopters for operations in the country.
I remember it fairly well. However, when NATO adopted its stance, severing ties and rejecting Russian helicopters, it had to encounter operational difficulties.
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