Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky marked the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism by reflecting on the historical significance of the Second World War and drawing connections to contemporary challenges. In his address, he emphasized that 81 years after the war’s conclusion, a new form of totalitarianism, marked as ‘made in Russia,’ has emerged.
Today, as Europe commemorates the end of one of history’s deadliest conflicts, Zelensky reminded listeners that the hope for lasting peace was a shared aspiration at the war’s end. He stated, ‘This day is a reminder of the sacrifices made and the lessons learned during the most horrific war of the 20th century.’
Highlighting Ukraine’s substantial losses during the Second World War, Zelensky noted the nation’s critical role in the defeat of Nazism. He remarked, ‘The war turned our land into a battlefield, marked by suffering and mass destruction. The losses endured by the Ukrainian people were among the highest, and our contributions to the Allied victory were significant.’
He acknowledged the bravery of millions of Ukrainians who fought alongside the Allied forces against Nazi Germany, stating, ‘They did everything possible to ensure that total evil was defeated.’
However, Zelensky lamented that the world now faces a similar threat. He stated, ‘Once again, we find ourselves compelled to confront total evil, which brings nothing but devastation and suffering, rooted in an ideology of hatred. This renewed version of Nazism is marked as “made in Russia.”’
In his closing remarks, the president called for a united global response to counter Russian aggression. ‘I am grateful to everyone who helps us protect lives. Thank you to all who refuse to allow this Russian regime to dictate the future. Defending the lives of people and the freedom of nations from Putin is a worthy tribute to those who did not allow Hitler to conquer Europe and the world. Eternal gratitude to all who fought against Nazism and liberated lives. May we remember all innocent victims of the Second World War. Glory to every defender of life,’ he concluded.
President Zelensky's address on the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism underscores Ukraine's historical sacrifices while drawing parallels to contemporary threats from Russia. He calls for global unity in the face of aggression, emphasizing the importance of defending freedom.