Afghan Victory Day in Afghanistan

Afghan Victory Day, also known as Liberation Day, is celebrated on April 28th in Afghanistan. This day commemorates the Mujahideen's victory over the Soviet forces in 1992 following the Soviet-Afghan War, which lasted from December 1979 to February 1989.

History:

• Soviet Invasion: The Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in December 1979 to support the communist government against growing insurgent groups.
• Resistance: The Mujahideen, a group of various Afghan guerrilla fighters, resisted the Soviet occupation with the support of various countries including the United States, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia.
• Withdrawal: The Soviets withdrew from Afghanistan in 1989 under international pressure and because of heavy casualties and costs.
• Mujahideen Takeover: Following a civil war between government forces and various factions, on April 28, 1992, the Mujahideen took control of Kabul and established an Islamic state.

Traditions:

Traditionally, Victory Day was celebrated with parades and official ceremonies remembering those who lost their lives during the conflict. In recent years, however, its observation has been more subdued due to ongoing conflicts within the country and political sensitivities surrounding the events that followed that victory.

Current Observations:

On Afghan Victory Day:

• Some people visit cemeteries to pay respect to fallen fighters.
• There are often public speeches or statements made by political leaders.
• It's an occasion for reflecting on Afghanistan's history and contemplating its future.

Given the complex history after 1992 involving civil unrest, Taliban control, and subsequent conflicts including NATO intervention post-2001, Afghan Victory Day is observed with mixed feelings among different segments of Afghan society.