In his speech at the unveiling, Vladimir Medinsky described the life of Pyotr Kotlyarevsky as one of exemplary service to the Fatherland and added that, during the Soviet era, the outstanding commander had faded from memory, but today he once again serves as an example to the Russian Armed Forces.
The unveiling was followed by a salute from historical cannons from the city embankment and a response volley by the Black Sea Navy frigate Admiral Makarov anchored off shore in the Feodosia bay.
The ceremony was also attended by Deputy Defence Minister – Chief of the Main Military-Political Directorate of the Armed Forces Andrei Kartapolov, Chair of the Crimean State Council Vladimir Konstantinov, Sevastopol Governor Mikhail Razvozhayev and commanders of the Black Sea Fleet.
The equestrian statue of the general was installed at the initiative of the Russian Military Historical Society. Its creative council chose the design by sculptor Andrei Korobtsov and architect Konstantin Fomin following an open international contest.