Islamabad, February 24, 2026: Russia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, on Tuesday said that unity between the armed forces and the people remains the ultimate guarantee of Russia’s survival and future, stressing that history has repeatedly proven this at decisive moments.
The ambassador made these remarks while addressing a ceremony at the Russian Embassy to mark Defender of the Fatherland Day, which he described as holding a special place in the history and hearts of the Russian people.
“It is an honor for me to welcome you to this reception dedicated to Defender of the Fatherland Day, which reminds us of military valor and the enduring tradition of serving the country,” Khorev said.
Tracing the origins of the holiday to the early 20th century, he recalled that Russia’s regular armed forces were established during a difficult period in the country’s history. He noted that in January 1918, the Workers’ and Peasants’ Red Army and Navy were formed, followed by a February 23 decree by the Council of People’s Commissars titled “The Socialist Fatherland is in Danger,” calling on citizens to defend the homeland.
“While the structure, training, and capabilities of the armed forces have evolved, the resolve to safeguard our sovereignty and security remains unchanged,” he said, emphasizing that unity between the army and the people continues to underpin Russia’s strength.
Highlighting key historical moments, the ambassador referred to 13th-century leader Alexander Nevsky, who repelled foreign aggression and became a national hero. He also cited military and naval expansion under Peter the Great during the Great Northern War, which secured Russia access to the Baltic Sea and elevated it to the ranks of major world powers.
Khorev further paid tribute to renowned commanders, including Alexander Suvorov, famed for never losing a battle and his 1799 Alpine campaign, and Mikhail Kutuzov, whose leadership during the Patriotic War of 1812 helped defeat Napoleon’s forces.
Honoring Soviet military leadership during World War II, he mentioned marshals Georgy Zhukov, Konstantin Rokossovsky, and Alexander Vasilevsky, describing the Soviet victory in the Great Patriotic War as an unparalleled achievement made at enormous sacrifice. “The unity of the people and the army demonstrated the futility of any plans to invade Russia,” he said.
Turning to contemporary issues, the ambassador said the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue their historic mission by strengthening combat readiness and professionalism while relying on modern domestically produced military technology. Referring to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, he said Russia was facing opposition from what he termed the “collective West,” accusing it of seeking to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia.
“Amid unprecedented global pressure and tension, our armed forces play a pivotal role in safeguarding the state, protecting civilians, and defending Russia’s right to an independent path of development,” Khorev said, expressing confidence that Russia would achieve the goals of what he described as the special military operation.
Concluding his address, the ambassador thanked Russian military personnel for their service and dedication, wishing for peaceful skies, the swift resolution of conflicts, and health and prosperity for them and their families.
