The message reads, in part:
“I welcome you to the Hero City of Tula for the opening of the 23rd Yury Ozerov International Military Film Festival held under the motto “Through war in cinema – against war in the world!”
For many years, your remarkable creative project has enriched our nation’s cultural life, serving the patriotic, spiritual, and moral education of the younger generation.
I am confident that this year’s festival, which is timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory and the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland, will delight audiences with a rich programme, introduce them to talented Russian and foreign film directors, screenwriters, and actors, showcase their finest cinematic works, and, undoubtedly, leave everyone with warm and unforgettable impressions.”