Millions of Saint George ribbons will be distributed to Russians and compatriots abroad, announced the official representative of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maria Zakharova. The start of the traditional annual nationwide "Saint George Ribbon" campaign was given on April 24th. The campaign will last until May 9th. "This year, millions of ribbons as a symbol of Victory will be distributed to Russian citizens, including those living abroad, through the efforts of the Victory Volunteers," said Maria Zakharova. The campaign, born from an initiative by RIA Novosti journalists in March 2005, has turned into a popular tradition uniting millions of people worldwide. It is held annually in over 90 countries by the Victory Volunteers. Ministries and agencies, state corporations, and civic organizations, youth movements in various countries participate in it. In total, about 20 million ribbons are distributed annually within the campaign. Volunteers will distribute the Saint George ribbons at 7,000 locations, including beyond the Arctic Circle.