This designation, established two years ago, was attributed to Voronezh, Polyarny (Murmansk region), Luga (Leningrad region), Rostov-on-Don and Tuapse (Krasnodar region).
The head of state expressed his special thanks to representatives of the cities’ veterans’ organizations in awarding these honorary titles.
The ceremony was attended by heads of cities, veterans and representatives of youth organisations.
This honour is given to those cities that during fierce battles in defence of the Fatherland showed extraordinary courage, resilience and heroism.
In these Cities of Military Glory a plaque featuring the city emblem and the text of the presidential decree conferring the title will be unveiled, and some public events and holiday fireworks will occur on 23 February, Defender of the Fatherland Day and on 9 May, Victory Day, and on the city’s holiday.
This designation has already been awarded to Belgorod, Vladikavkaz, Elets, Yelnya, Kursk, Malgobek, Orel and Rzhev.