Astana, May 9, 2025 – The Europe Today: Kazakhstan is commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War with solemn nationwide celebrations, paying tribute to the heroism of those who fought on the frontlines and those who contributed tirelessly on the home front during World War II.
A grand military parade was held on May 7 in Astana’s Independence Square, drawing thousands of spectators. The event featured over 4,000 servicemen, more than 200 units of both modern and historical military equipment, and a dynamic air show with 66 aircraft. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev attended the parade and delivered a heartfelt address honoring Kazakhstan’s wartime legacy.
“Our people made an immense contribution to the Great Victory,” President Tokayev stated. “More than 1.2 million Kazakhs were drafted to the front, and half of them died heroically for the bright future of the next generations. Their bravery is a vivid testament to the courage of the Kazakh nation.”
He also recognized the critical role of civilians who sustained the war effort from behind the lines. “Home front workers showed great resilience. From Kazakhstan, 1,500 wagons of food and clothing were sent to the front. Hundreds of factories were relocated or built here, producing weapons and uniforms. Nine out of ten bullets were cast from Kazakh lead,” the President noted.
In a move to honor the memory of the fallen, approximately 500 streets across the country will be renamed after Kazakh soldiers who served during the war. On May 9, the capital will host the patriotic memorial march Batyrlarğa taǵzym (“Tribute to Heroes”), in which descendants of World War II veterans will carry portraits of their ancestors in a powerful symbol of remembrance.
“In an age of global instability, our main task is to protect national interests,” President Tokayev emphasized. “Kazakhstan follows a peaceful yet firm path, guided by the principle: ‘Honor is worth more than life.’”
The commemorations will culminate on May 9 at 10:00 p.m. with a festive fireworks display in Astana, launched simultaneously from two locations — the Botanical Garden and near the Atyrau Bridge — lighting up the night sky in tribute to those who secured peace.
As part of the broader Victory Week program, Kazakhstan also observed Defender of the Fatherland Day on May 7, marking 33 years since the founding of the national Armed Forces. Additionally, the Kazinform News Agency and the Kazakhstan Temir Zholy national railway company organized a historical exhibition at Nurly Zhol station, highlighting Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in securing victory over fascism.
The 80th anniversary celebrations serve not only as a moment of national pride but also as a reminder of the enduring values of courage, unity, and sacrifice that shaped Kazakhstan’s path to peace and sovereignty.
