Kumanovo, 17 October 2025 (MIA) – Members of the Operations Command celebrated the unit’s day with a military ceremony in Kumanovo’s Boro Menkov army barracks on Friday.

October 17 has been set as the Day of the Operations Command, commemorating a key historical event that shapes the Army’s traditions: in 1887, the headquarters of the Kresna Uprising was established in the village of Kresna, marking the day the uprising began.

State and military officials attended the ceremony. Defence Minister Vlado Misajlovski congratulated the Army personnel, highlighting their role in ensuring citizens’ safety and the collective security of the Alliance, and praising their professionalism and commitment.

“Most of you have served alongside allies to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank in Latvia, Bulgaria, and Romania. Equally, you are the ones who help Macedonian citizens during fires and natural disasters. This is a huge responsibility, which you carry out fully, proving our trust in you. You are here for the country and its people, and we, the Ministry and General Staff, are here to provide the best conditions and modern equipment,” Misajlovski said.

He said that the defence budget will continue to increase, much of it for modernization and new equipment.

“You deserve this. We will keep updating your personal gear and weapons and with our allies and partners, help develop your professional skills. Your dedication motivates us to do this,” he said.

He urged them to continue working diligently, noting that at the next NATO assessment, the Army will be represented in the best possible light.

“Over the past year, the Ministry of Defence, together with the General Staff, has had the largest, historically approved budget of any government. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to defend Macedonian Army and state positions in Brussels. Next year and in the years ahead, we will continue at an even stronger pace to secure more funding and carry out numerous modernization projects for all of you,” Defence Minister noted.

Misajlovski expressed gratitude to all for successfully handling challenges, highlighting their support and teamwork, and assured them of his full support.

The Army’s Chief of General Staff, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, said the Operations Command is the highest operational command and a pillar of the Army. It is constantly modernizing, receiving equipment, and fulfilling NATO duties while taking part in missions. He also noted its participation in exercises and training, stressing continuous modernization with new equipment.

“I ask everyone to work together to increase combat readiness, capabilities, and resilience. Only a prepared Army is a true guarantee of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peace in the country. I ask you to set an example for all other institutions in the state, to instill trust and a sense of security in our citizens. I ask you to be the best ambassadors when abroad and our pride,” Lafchiski said.

The Commander of the Operations Command, Brigadier General Mirche Gjorgoski, stated that today’s generation of officers within the Command is proud of their achievements, successes, and the five-year NATO membership to which they have contributed.

Gjorgoski stated that training soldiers, fostering discipline and loyalty, and preparing future leaders is the Command’s most important mission and duty, essential for maintaining the reputation of the Operations Command and the Army.

The event was attended by generals, deputy generals, members of the President’s office, former military officials, Ministry officials, mayors and local representatives from Kumanovo and Lipkovo.

Photo: MIA