President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva Honor Memory of Azerbaijanis Who Perished in Fight Against Fascism
Baku, The Gulf Observer: Azerbaijan solemnly marked the 80th anniversary of the historic Victory over fascism in the 1941–1945 Great Patriotic War. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Victorious Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, accompanied by First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, visited the grave of Major General of Tank Troops Hazi Aslanov, a national hero twice awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union.
The head of state and the First Lady laid flowers at the monument to the renowned military commander and paid tribute to all Azerbaijanis who lost their lives during the war. Their gesture reflects the nation’s enduring respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of peace and freedom.
The Azerbaijani people played a pivotal role in securing Victory in the Second World War. Around 600,000 Azerbaijani men and women were sent to the front, more than 300,000 of whom died heroically in combat. Over 130 Azerbaijani citizens were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, and more than 170,000 soldiers and officers received various medals and orders in recognition of their bravery.
Azerbaijani divisions fought with distinction from the Caucasus to Berlin, and many Azerbaijani fighters joined guerrilla resistance movements. Equally vital was Azerbaijan’s contribution to the war effort through its oil industry. As a key supplier to the Soviet army, Azerbaijan provided 90 percent of engine oil, 80 percent of gasoline, and 70 percent of total oil needs—an indispensable lifeline for the war front.
The valor and patriotism of the Azerbaijani people have always been cherished. National Leader Heydar Aliyev described war veterans as “the golden fund of our people” and prioritized their well-being. Continuing this legacy, President Ilham Aliyev remains committed to supporting war veterans. In accordance with the Presidential Order dated April 21, 2025, veterans of the Second World War were granted one-time financial assistance of 2,500 manats. Widows of fallen soldiers, home front workers, and other individuals who made significant wartime contributions received 1,250 manats in recognition of their service.
This year, Azerbaijan celebrates the Victory over fascism for the fifth consecutive year in the spirit of heightened national pride, following the triumph in the 44-day Patriotic War. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan has restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty within its internationally recognized borders—a long-awaited justice realized after three decades.
The memory of all martyrs who fell in defense of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as those who perished in the Second World War, will live on eternally in the hearts of the Azerbaijani people.
