Minister Anušić from Knin: We fulfilled a centuries-old dream, and the Rafales will show our power today

Croatian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Ivan Anušić marked the anniversary of Operation Storm in Knin with a powerful display of national pride and remembrance. Speaking on August 5th, Anušić conveyed a mix of emotions, but emphasized the overwhelming sense of pride and happiness felt for achieving a free and independent Croatia.

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We succeeded in what we dreamed of for centuries and for which generations died for centuries, and that is the Croatian state.

Anušić hailed Operation Storm as the most successful military operation in Croatian history, stating it definitively ended the war and fulfilled the nation's goal of sovereignty. He reflected on the uncertain early years of Croatia's independence struggle in the early 1990s, noting that few gave the nation a chance for success. This context, he explained, makes the 1995 victory even more significant, fulfilling a centuries-long dream for which many sacrificed their lives.

"We succeeded in what we dreamed of for centuries and for which generations died for centuries, and that is the Croatian state," Anušić stated emotionally. He paid special tribute to those who died defending Croatia, emphasizing that the present-day freedom is primarily because of their sacrifice. The commemoration also served as an occasion for veterans and participants in the historic victory to reunite.

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The Croatian Army is always ready and will always be ready.

Responding to questions about the Croatian Army's readiness, Anušić declared with conviction, "The Croatian Army is always ready and will always be ready." He announced that this readiness would be visibly demonstrated during the day's celebration with a highly anticipated event: a special flyover by powerful Rafale fighter jets. Three jets will initially pass over Knin, followed by a solo performance by one jet showcasing its full maneuverability and operational capabilities, confirming the strength of Croatia's air force.

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One will return later and show the capabilities of both the pilot and the Rafale itself.