March 9 marks three years since the Kastus Kalinouski Regiment, a Belarusian unit fighting against Russian aggression in Ukraine, was formed.
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “The Kalinouski Regiment is something truly unprecedented in modern Belarusian history. Yes, we have many outstanding figures from past centuries. But Belarusian volunteers have shown that our country has modern-era heroes too.
From the first days of Russia’s full-scale war, Belarusians joined Ukraine’s defense. They refused to stand aside, knowing this war is not distant – our nations share the same enemy. Ukraine is fighting for what we fear losing as well – the right to our language, history, and culture. The right to our land and self-determination.
Over these years, we have seen Belarusians fight on Ukraine’s frontlines, rescuing people under fire. But heroes are not only on the battlefield. Some provide weapons, medical aid, information, and financial support – sacrificing their time, resources, and even safety. Belarusians work in humanitarian missions, help refugees, deliver medicine, and transport vehicles. Each of them proves that we are not just dreaming of freedom – we are bringing it closer with real action.
Belarusians are where they need to be. We may not always know their faces. We may not know their names. But even if their names are not in the headlines, they are still heroes. We remember those who have fallen and honor their dedication and courage. We remember Mikhail Zhyzneuski, ‘Brest,’ and Maryia Zaitsava. We remember ‘Tur’ and those known only as ‘Name Undisclosed’.
No one asks whether we want to live through historic events. But since we must, Belarusians are doing everything to ensure these events lead to victory.
Long Live Belarus! Glory to Ukraine!”
