Victory Day signifies extraordinary sacrifices made in the fight against fascism

Says the Russian Consulate General in Kolkata and also recognises India's role to defeat Nazi Germany

- OUR CORRESPONDENT

As Russia prepares to mark the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany, the nation is gearing up for the grand Victory Day parade in Moscow. Consul General of the Russian Federation in Kolkata, Maxim Kozlov, reflects on the horrors of war and shares what Victory Day means not only for Russia but for the world.

Why is May 9 observed as Victory Day in Russia and what makes it so significant?

The most horrific and blood-soaked conflict in human history, the Second World War—eternally remembered in the hearts of the Russian people as the "Great Patriotic War"—claimed the lives of over 60 million people across the world. On May 9, 2025, we will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's glorious historic victory. For the Russian people, this day is not merely a public holiday; it stands as a significant symbol of the extraordinary sacrifices made in the fight against fascism.

For the Russian people, May 9 holds profound significance—it is a day to honour our fallen heroes, to pay tribute to the veterans, and to reflect on the triumph of liberation. It stands as an enduring lesson to future generations on the true value of peace and freedom.

Given the immense losses suffered by the country during the war, how has this history shaped Russia's national memory?

Yes, in the Great Patriotic War, an estimated 27 million Soviet citizens lost their lives at the hands of Nazi Germany and its allies. Millions were subjected to the brutal horrors of death camps, forced to abandon their homes, or compelled to labour in German-occupied territories. There was hardly a single family in our country untouched by the shadow of this war. There's no one in our country who did not feel the pain it left behind.