A city memorial event “Road of Life” was held in Minsk on November 19, 2025, marking the 84th anniversary of the opening of vehicular transport across the ice of Lake Ladoga – the crucial supply route for providing food and cargo to besieged Leningrad. The event was organized by the “Belarusian Union of Leningrad Blockade Survivors” public association.
The CIS Executive Committee delegation participated in the event. CIS First Deputy Secretary-General Igor Petrishenko sent a greeting to the organizers and participants of the commemorative meeting.
In his address, he noted that history knew no parallel for such an operation, where under constant shelling and bombing, facing mortal danger throughout the winter months of the harsh year 1941 and subsequent siege years, army motor transport units continuously delivered essential supplies to the besieged city and evacuated the sick, wounded, and children back from it.
“This lifeline connecting besieged Leningrad with the mainland was aptly and accurately named the “Road of Life”. It was a road of life not only for those in blockaded Leningrad but also for those who, risking their own lives, fulfilled their military duty to save people”, – emphasized Igor Petrishenko in his message.
He particularly highlighted that the current year in the CIS is marked by the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. Across the Commonwealth, scientific, informational, and educational events are being held aimed at preserving the historical truth about the war, exposing attempts to falsify its events and outcomes, countering fascism and neo-Nazism, and instilling in the younger generation a spirit of patriotism and love for their homeland.
“Today’s event is special. You, dear veterans, are those who survived the horrors of war, experienced its suffering and deprivation, and communication with you is invaluable. I am convinced that your event will serve to strengthen peace, friendship, and mutual understanding not only among the peoples of the Commonwealth countries but also among all people of goodwill”, – concluded Igor Petrishenko.