The Afghan echo in Belhydromet: memory and lessons

On February 10, 2026, a roundtable titled "Afghanistan in the lives of our compatriots" was held at the state institution "Republican Center for Hydrometeorology, Control of Radioactive Contamination and Environmental Monitoring."

Eduard Novichkov, a direct participant in the fighting in Afghanistan, an employee of Belhydromet, shared his memories with the youth of Belhydromet.

Thirty-seven years ago, on February 15, 1989, one of the world's most combat-ready armies, having endured nearly ten years of fighting against well-trained mujahideen and mercenaries from over thirty countries, was withdrawn from Afghanistan. This day became the Day of Internationalist Warriors - honoring all who took part in military actions on the territories of other states. The date marking the beginning of the withdrawal of Soviet troops from Afghanistan is significant to all those touched by the breath of war in what was considered peacetime. It is a day of remembrance not only for those who fought in Afghanistan but for all internationalist warriors of the Limited Contingent of Soviet Forces in Afghanistan who participated in resolving military conflicts.

The war in Afghanistan saw the participation of 28,832 citizens of Belarus. 771 were killed, over one and a half thousand were wounded, and 12 remain listed as missing in action.

Eduard Novichkov spoke about the hardships of those times, noting that the Afghan war veterans honorably fulfilled their civic duty.

"We must remember those of our contemporaries who passed through the fiery miles of war in what seemed to be peacetime, who live among us today, and those who are no longer with us, " he emphasized.

Addressing the youth, Eduard Nikolaevich urged them not to forget the soldier, his loyalty to the military oath, his honor and courage, and his ability to prove himself a worthy successor to the combat traditions of his fathers and grandfathers in the most difficult situations.

"Every war is a tragedy for the people. We must learn its lesson, remember the price we paid for the war in Afghanistan," he concluded.

The event was accompanied by a presentation featuring photographs from those distant events.

The Afghan War left a deep mark on history, reminding us of the need to preserve the memory of soldiers' honor, loyalty to their oath, and steadfastness.