On 23 March 2026, the Ambassador of Russia to South Africa, H.E. Ilya Ambarov, took part in a commemorative event marking the celebration of South Africa’s Liberation Day and the 38th anniversary of the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale.
The event was held at Freedom Park, a significant historical and memorial complex in Pretoria. The keynote address was delivered by Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe. Among the attendees were Nomvula Mokonyane, alongside diplomatic representatives to Cuba, Angola and Namibia as well as veterans of the historic battle.
In his address, Ambassador Ambarov highlighted the importance of the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale as a turning point in the Angolan Civil War. He noted that the success of the People’s Armed Forces for the Liberation of Angola played a critical role in advancing peace efforts in Namibia and contributed to the broader liberation of South Africa.
He described the battle as a powerful symbol of resistance against oppression, emphasising that even in the face of stronger forces, the determination of people fighting for their rights remains unbreakable. He also underscored the role of the Soviet Union in supporting Angola, noting that military assistance, political backing and cooperation between Soviet, Angolan and Cuban forces strengthened Angola’s sovereignty during a pivotal period.
Ambassador Ambarov further reflected on the shared historical struggle against colonialism, stating that countries across different regions were united in a common fight for freedom, albeit on different fronts.
As part of the ceremony, he laid flowers at the Wall of Names of Fallen in Action, honouring Soviet military specialists who contributed to the liberation struggles across the African continent.
The Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, fought between August 1987 and March 1988 during the Angolan Civil War, remains one of the most decisive engagements in southern African history. Forces from Angola, supported by the Soviet Union, Cuba, the African National Congress and regional allies confronted UNITA and the apartheid-era South Africa military. The outcome is widely regarded as a key moment that shifted the balance of power in the region and accelerated the path toward Namibian independence and the end of apartheid in South Africa.
