Victory Echoes In Pictures from Across Russia

The stunning pageantry and spectacle that was the 70th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany reverberates one week later. Since last Saturday, it is as if the world has turned about face in many regards, especially where attitudes toward the Russian people are concerned. Today seems like as good a day as any to share some never before seen imagery from Russia’s most memorable patriotic celebration ever.

Thanks to the kindness and consideration of Igor Trushlyakov (Игорь Трушляков), Russia Insider is proud to share the May 9th warmth from Belgorod, just across the border from Kharkiv in Ukraine. I'd also like to thank the site Rasfokus for introducing me to scores of wonderful Russian photographers. Looking at the people of this small city on the frontier, it is clear that Russia's heroes will never, ever be forgotten. 

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For a briefing on Belgorod, the city named for its massive limestone deposits (Belgorod means "white city") has 350,000 residents, and is located just 40 km North of the Ukraine border. 

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Belgorod was occupied by Nazi Germany from October 25, 1941 to February 9, 1943. It was recaptured by the Germans on March 18, 1943. The city was liberated After the famous tank battle at Kursk. The Belgorod Diorama is one of the World War II monuments commemorating the event.

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The mayor of the city is Sergey Bozhenov, who was born the village of Beleniya Prokhorovka district Belgorod region. Belgorod is an important transport hub, with roads and railways leading from South to North and from West to East. The city has many cultural and historic sites, as well as a major railway station and an international airport.

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