KOTJELNIKOV: PRESERVING THE TRUTH ABOUT SUFFERING OF THE RUSSIAN AND SERBIAN PEOPLES

BANJA LUKA, May 8 /SRNA/ – The “Romanov” Association of Russians in Republika Srpska, through its culture of remembrance on May 9—Victory Day over fascism—strives to preserve the truth about the suffering of the Russian and Serbian peoples, who share a spirit of freedom and love of justice, Igor Kotjelnikov, a representative of the association, told SRNA today.

"At a time when there is an attempt to falsify history and to downplay the significance of the Soviet Army in liberating Europe from the greatest atrocity in human history, we have set ourselves the task of reminding people—through a series of events — of the 26 million Soviet victims of World War II and nearly one million Serbian victims," Kotjelnikov said. He added that the decision of Republika Srpska officials, led by President Milorad Dodik, to travel to Moscow for the Victory Day commemorations is itself a confirmation of the fraternal relationship between the Russian and Serbian peoples. Kotjelnikov noted that tomorrow in Banja Luka a concert titled "Lest We Forget" will be held to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the capitulation of fascist Germany. The concert is organized by the Alexander Nevsky Ensemble, the Russian cultural center Russian World in Banja Luka, and the Romanov Association of Russians in Republika Srpska. On the program are choral performances of songs symbolizing the victory over fascism. The artistic program will be performed by the Alexander Nevsky Ensemble, under the direction of Lazar Radoja. Concert organizers will also participate in the “Immortal Regiment March” in Banja Luka tomorrow.