Official website of the President of Russia

News   /

The meeting took place at the unified support centre for participants in the special military operation and their family members, the Moscow branch of the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Friends, good afternoon.

First and foremost, I wish to note that we are meeting ahead of March 8. This is a deeply heartfelt holiday, always observed in our country with particular attention to women – mothers, friends, wives, and colleagues. I congratulate you all on the approaching occasion. We invariably associate it with spring and renewal – a kind, uplifting celebration.

Yet I also see women here today in military uniform. This means that among us – and at this gathering – are those directly involved in the special military operation. To you, I extend special gratitude and profound respect for your commitment. Our women serve not only as medical personnel and specialists in other military roles but also, increasingly, on the frontline itself.

Today, we have gathered at a rehabilitation centre run by the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best facilities in the country – though that is not the focus today, while it is important. I do hope colleagues from other regions will make a note of how it’s done in Moscow and work to take the cue.

What truly matters is that, as I understand, the majority of those present here are women linked in various capacities to these foundations and to our service personnel – our fighters who are performing their duty to the Motherland, to Russia, on the frontlines. Here, we see the mothers, wives and, likely, the girlfriends of our soldiers.

I must emphasise – and we all know this well, for it has always been so – that the rear is one of the most important things for any man, particularly a serviceman risking his life, a vital source of motivation for any military man to fight and achieve victory.

Of course, I am certain that – as the saying goes, there are no atheists in the trenches – there are likely no men who do not think of their families, women, sisters, mothers, wives, or girlfriends. This constitutes an essential pillar of the ongoing efforts across our nation, of all that is being undertaken to safeguard Russia’s interests.

I will refrain from lengthy speeches or monologues. It would perhaps be more productive for me to hear from you – both regarding the direct operations of the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation, the spheres in which you are engaged, and the broader situation unfolding today – which, regrettably, at times carries tragic consequences for families and for our servicemen. Wounds and casualties – all of this stems from military engagements, all of this defines the circumstances in which we must now live and fortify our nation. You bear witness to this reality more than anyone.

I am at your disposal. If there is anything you wish to raise – and I am certain there is – please proceed.

Once more, I congratulate you on the upcoming March 8, the Women’s Day holiday.

<…>

Vladimir Putin: In conclusion, I want to emphasise the importance of preserving the memory of those who are no longer with us, which is an essential part of both the state’s efforts and the mission of your foundation. But this work is for future generations. At the same time, we must focus on those who need our support today. I sincerely thank you for your dedication to helping those who have served and continue to serve their Motherland, as well as their families.

In these challenging times, I want to take a moment to congratulate you on the upcoming Women’s Day. I also want to address something we often hear, that today’s young people are somehow different from previous generations. But our military doctor, a paramedic, has a special way of referring to these young men. She calls them – what?

Remark: Boys.

Vladimir Putin: They are all young people, boys, as we call them. Just like the youth that has always existed in Russia, the young people of today are no different from those of the past.

In this regard, I also want to acknowledge women in general, the women of Russia. They have always been, and continue to be, gentle and beautiful, yet at the same time, courageous and strong. They know their own worth, as well as the importance of what we all serve – our Fatherland.

Congratulations on the upcoming Women’s Day!