Belarus marks Independence Day

On July 3, Belarus marks its Day of Independence, also known as Republic Day. On the day back in 1944, the state capital Minsk was liberated from Nazi Germany by Soviet troops.

The holiday draws big crowds. Celebrations include military parades and cultural and sports events for all.

Residents lay wreaths and flowers at the Victory monument in central Minsk to pay their respects to those who died liberating the city.