Alexander Beglov, the governor of St. Petersburg, congratulated all Orthodox Christians on yesterday’s Easter holiday during his weekly program on Radio Russia, wishing them peace and health.
“Easter is a symbol of the victory of life over death, light over darkness, good over evil. Today, our soldiers are defending by force of arms the ideals of goodness and justice, and protecting the historical truth and our culture,” the official added.
In his opinion, it was observance of the ancient Christian traditions that made Russia “strong and invincible.”
Announcing his upcoming trip to the St. Petersburg Days celebration in Belarus, Beglov said that both countries opposed fascism. This year, the city will be sending its largest delegation in the history of Petersburg-Belarusian bilateral relations to the neighboring state.
In his Easter address yesterday, Beglov remembered Mariupol.
Source: “Beglov links Eastern holiday to actions of Russian in SMO zone,” ZAKS.ru, 17 April 2023. Translated by TRR

Basically, what I want to say is that I have been incredibly lucky when it comes to people. It is the only real thing, the future. The rest is hell.
Source: An Easter greeting sent to me by an old friend and lifelong resident of St. Petersburg. Translated by TRR
Petersburg mayor [sic] Alexander Beglov and the head of the city’s parliament [sic] Alexander Belsky addressed the residents of the Northern Capital on the occasion of the Orthodox holiday of Easter. The speeches made by the politicians were quoted by the press service for the Smolny.
Beglov and Belsky spent last night at a service in Our Lady of Kazan Cathedral.
Metropolitan Varsonofy conducted the service. Addressing the residents of St. Petersburg, the mayor [sic] recalled the special military operation.
“Today our country is undertaking a special mission. Our military has been facing difficult trials in the name of justice and the future of our children. Our hearts are with them. Our prayers are for them!” the governor said.
In his address, Beglov mentioned Mariupol, St. Petersburg’s sister city, as well as the involvement of Russians in the SMO.
“Our Church prays for them, for the soldiers, for all who are united with us in our values,” Beglov concluded.
Source: “Beglov remembers Mariupol while congratulating Petersburgers on Easter,” ZAKS.ru, 16 April 2023. Translated by TRR