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NUR-SULTAN, May 9-- Instead of parades and fireworks, Kazakhstan marked the 75th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War with some small-scale yet heart-warming events amid the spread of COVID-19. On the eve of the 75th Victory Day, Kazakh officials wearing face masks visited several veterans at their homes in Almaty, the largest Kazakh city, presenting them with flowers, letters and medals. "We are proud of you, your feats and dedication have become real symbols of valor and patriotism for our generation," read a letter to veterans from the Kazakh Interior Ministry. "We have already lived 75 years without a war. I hope that no wars will be seen in the future and younger generations will enjoy a peaceful life forever," said veteran Mikhail Prokopenko. For the first time, this year's Immortal Regiment march has been switched to an online mode. Everyone can upload photos of their ancestors and their war stories with a corresponding hashtag on social media. In the capital Nur-Sultan, flags, posters and billboards reading "Happy Victory Day," as well as images of St. George's ribbon, can be seen here and there. On Friday night, with digital images of the "eternal flame" -- a symbol of a nation's perpetual gratitude towards and remembrance of its war dead -- appearing on landmark buildings in Nur-Sultan to mark the victory, local residents went to their balconies to join a flashmob to light up the city and sang wartime songs together. | 
