He noted that "2020 brought a lot of challenges."
“The coronavirus pandemic has abruptly changed the way of life, tried to distance us from each other, but thereby only rallied in the fight against this serious challenge.
We have made another step forward, ”the minister said.
According to him, "the Russian army has become even more modern and technologically advanced, today it is able to give a worthy response to any threats, to protect the country's sovereignty and the peaceful life of its citizens."
Shoigu stressed that "this is the merit of all who honestly and responsibly fulfill their official duty, work conscientiously in the interests of strengthening the country's defense capability, and multiply the glorious traditions of the generation of winners."
“We sacredly honor the feat of the veterans who saved the world from Nazism.
We will continue to rebuff everyone who is trying to distort our history, to belittle the contribution to the Great Victory.
The best wishes to those who serve on a combat post on holidays, defend Russia's national interests outside its borders, and carry out peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.
Sincere gratitude to our military medics, builders, RCB protection troops.
You are still at the forefront today, ”Shoigu said.
Earlier, Shoigu congratulated the military and veterans on the Day of the Strategic Missile Forces.