Mirziyoyev Marks Victory Day With National Address

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addressed the nation with a holiday message on the occasion of the Day of Memory and Honor and the 81st anniversary of Victory in World War II. The message was published on May 8, 2026.

In his address, the president expressed deep respect for the memory of those who died on the battlefields and for living veterans of the war and labor front. He also paid tribute to servicemen and law enforcement officers who died during the years of independence while defending the country’s sovereignty.

Mirziyoyev recalled the scale of Uzbekistan’s contribution to the victory. Out of a population of 6.8 million during the war years, nearly 2 million people—1.95 million—were mobilized to the front. More than half a million were killed in combat, over 158,000 went missing, and more than 60,000 returned home disabled. For their service, 214,000 soldiers and officers from Uzbekistan were awarded orders and medals, 301 received the title Hero of the Soviet Union, and 70 were awarded the Order of Glory of all three degrees.

The president also highlighted the humanitarian role of Uzbekistan during the war, noting that the republic received more than 1.5 million evacuees, including 250,000 children orphaned by the war, providing them with care and shelter.

Addressing current support measures for veterans, Mirziyoyev said that participants and disabled veterans of World War II received financial payments of 30 million soums this year. They are also provided with free and preferential sanatorium treatment.

During the holiday period, representatives of local authorities, public organizations and youth visit veterans and families of fallen servicemen. Across the country, memorial evenings, intergenerational meetings, cultural and sports events are held under the motto “Duty, Courage, Resilience!”

The president named the Victory Park complex in Tashkent, including the “Light of Memory” and “Patriots of the Nation” memorials, as a key national site of remembrance.

Concluding his address, Mirziyoyev called on citizens to cherish peace, stability and interethnic harmony, describing national unity as the country’s “most valuable asset and the strong foundation of all achievements.” He also emphasized strengthening national defense capabilities, developing international cooperation and educating youth in a spirit of patriotism.

The president conveyed greetings to the brotherly nations that fought against fascism and wished all citizens of Uzbekistan peace, happiness and prosperity.