The exhibition, which focused on the power and reunification of these regions with the motherland, provided a visual narrative of events and life in these territories. Through the displayed images, the exhibition aimed to convey to the audience an “exciting story” reflecting the happiness and pride of a land now an integral part of Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin extended congratulations to Russian citizens on the occasion of “Reunification Day” with the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics, as well as the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, affirming that this step embodied “national and historical unity.” Putin stated, “My dear friends, esteemed Russian citizens, I warmly congratulate you on this holiday, the day of the return of Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson to our great unified homeland.”
Putin emphasized that Russians “fight and win in defense of national unity, interests, and shared values,” asserting that “Russia will continue to protect its language, culture, and historical and religious heritage.” The Russian president added, “This is a sacred right stemming from the sacrifices of our ancestors and many generations of loyal Russian patriots, soldiers, and workers.”
President Vladimir Putin continued that “three years ago, in referendums in Donbas and Novorossiya, millions of our citizens independently and freely decided their future. They achieved a long-awaited dream and made a fateful decision that changed their lives, choosing to be with their motherland and return to their natural families they have always been part of.”
He further emphasized that Russia will overcome all challenges and remain a great independent state, promising to continue working on infrastructure development, ensuring water and healthcare, and rebuilding what was destroyed by the war. The Russian president noted that Russia launched an extensive program to revive the lands of Donbas and Novorossiya, explaining that since 2022, more than 23,500 residential and social facilities have been constructed or renovated, and 6,350 kilometers of roads have been upgraded.
The work also included the establishment of modern schools, medical centers, and sports complexes. Putin concluded his speech by affirming that “lasting peace will return to the lands of Donbas and Novorossiya,” emphasizing that Russia will provide all conditions to enable the new regions to harness their immense industrial, agricultural, scientific, and cultural potential.
Russians celebrate “Reunification Day” on September 30th each year, marking the return of the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics and the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions to the Russian Federation, a commemoration established by federal law on September 28, 2023.
