The Battle of Khalkhyn Gol in 1939 was important event in both Mongolian and world history. During the battle – or series of battles – combined Mongolian and Soviet troops thwarted an attempt by the Empire of Japan to seize territory beyond Manchuria in the first move to secure natural resources in Siberia; the defeat, convinced Tokyo, that it would be simpler obtaining such resources from South East Asia, which set in motion a chain of events leading to Pearl Habour and the US entry into WW2.

This year, Mongolia and the Russian Federation are marking the 80^th anniversary of the Battle of Khalkhyn Gol. A series of joint events are planned.

Earlier today (27 May), a ‘Memorial Meeting’ was held at Institute of History and Archaeology in the Mongolian Academy of Science to honour the veterans and families of the deceased. Ten surviving veterans aged 100 participated in the meeting.

According to the Victory Museum, less than 100 soldiers who fought in Khalkhyn Gol have been identified. Nearly 15,000 Mongolian soldiers participated in the battle. Many Red Army troops also perished.

The Battle of Khalkhyn Gol, represents Japan’s undeclared war on Mongolia; over 100,000 troops stood against Japanese Imperialism and, in so doing, altered world history.