The power and strength of the army rest on servicemen faithful to their native land, Belarusian President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Aleksandr Lukashenko said at the oath of enlistment ceremony on 23 May, BelTA has learned.
The head of state noted that on this special day, thousands of young men are taking on a great responsibility to protect the present and future of their country. Addressing the recruits, Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized: “The military oath is not just lofty words, a ritual, or a tribute to tradition. It is a truly adult and responsible step, and not only in your life. It is important to understand that when you make a sacred pledge to the country and the people, you are making it to your home, to your family. You swear to unquestioningly carry out the orders of your commanders, strictly adhere to military regulations, and safeguard the independence, territorial integrity, and constitutional order of the Republic of Belarus.”
“From this moment on, your conscience and the law will hold you to the highest standards. The status of serviceman obliges you to be steadfast, courageous, and faithful to your duty and your country,” the president continued.
He noted that in any army, having modern weapons and equipment is an undeniable advantage. But its might and strength are determined by people, servicemen devoted to their native country, who stand united in defending the peace and security of their homeland.
“A soldier’s duty is hard and it can only be handled by real men, strong in body and spirit. It will not be easy for you,” the Belarusian leader said. “But I am convinced that shoulder to shoulder with your brothers in arms and under the guidance of experienced commanders, each of you will walk this path with honor.”
The president emphasized that the history of Belarus knows thousands of examples of ordinary young men, yesterday’s schoolchildren and students, performing heroic feats. Their names are inscribed in the chronicles of military glory and in the history of the country. Thanks to such people, to brave heroes, Belarus has enjoyed a peaceful sky for 80 years now.
The head of state reminded that 22 June this year will mark 85 years since the start of the Great Patriotic War. “The lessons we have learned, the memory of the victims of that war, and the heroism of the Soviet people form our shield, and we must protect it. To preserve the peace that came at such a terrible cost is to be worthy heirs of the victors,” the president said.
“No matter how difficult or even dangerous the situation along our borders may be, our task remains the same: to keep a peaceful sky over our country. Nothing is more precious than peace and the lives of our people. In these challenging times, your commitment to mastering the art of victory, operating the latest weaponry, and defending our homeland when necessary is a contribution to our sovereignty and independence,” the Belarusian leader said addressing the new conscripts.
Aleksandr Lukashenko also expressed deep gratitude to the parents of the new recruits, whom he called true patriots and valiant defenders of the homeland. “Years of immense parental effort have been worth it. Be proud of your sons standing here in this formation,” the head of state said. “Today, the homeland looks upon them with pride. I am deeply convinced that our young men will honorably live up to this great trust placed in them by the Belarusian people.” At the same time, the president reminded military commanders that they are responsible for the lives of the servicemen.
The president wished the new recruits health and success in their sacred duty of serving their country, and he wished their parents patience and the joy of witnessing their sons’ achievements.
Approximately 2,500 new recruits and about 160 reservists took the military oath in a formal ceremony at the 72nd Guards Joint Training Center that trains warrant officers and junior specialists.
During the event, the head of state received a report on the spring 2026 conscription campaign for the Armed Forces, as well as on the training of specialists at the 72nd Guards Joint Training Center.
In addition to that, the president spoke with the families of the new recruits. Aleksandr Lukashenko advised them not to worry or be anxious, though serving in the army is certainly a serious matter. As the commander-in-chief put it, this is no joke, no sanatorium, and no vacation. Dealing with complex equipment always requires caution and attentiveness.
“That does not mean that somewhere during drills or on the battlefield we will be afraid of anyone. Quite the opposite. We should not be afraid of anyone; let them be afraid of us. But we will always come out alive, healthy, and uninjured if we are careful, attentive, and cautious,” noted Aleksandr Lukashenko.
The head of state wished that the newly arrived servicemen return from their service as decent and brave men. “I thank the parents. Rest assured, we will do everything possible to help your sons return as twice the men you see here today. And to you, I wish courage, energy, and above all, wisdom as you finish your service. May happiness and success be yours,” the president said in conclusion to those gathered.