May 8 and 9 – dates marked by deep symbolic meaning, forever inscribed in the annals of world history. They embody the victory in the bitter battle for the liberation of humanity from the ideologies of fascism and Nazism, invariably associated with the end of World War II on the European continent. This is a planetary-scale event that requires reflection on its profound historical significance and the transmission of these lessons to future generations.

In European countries May 8 is observed under various names: «Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation», «Victory over Fascism Day», «Day of Victory and Freedom», «Europe Day», «Day of Liberation from Nazism and the End of World War II». In Germany – «Day of Liberation» (Tag der Befreiung).

In most countries of the post-Soviet space May 9 is an official state holiday – «Victory Day of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War of 1941–1945». It embodies the valor and courage of all who confronted the enemy on the fronts, fought in partisan units, and selflessly labored on the home front for the independence of the country. It is a symbol of the unbowed patriotism and spiritual greatness of the multinational Soviet people, who endured the hardships of war.

According to UN General Assembly Resolution (59/26), dated 22 November 2004, both dates are recognized as days of remembrance and reconciliation that pay tribute to the victims of World War II. At the same time, UN member states retained the right to independently determine their own days of victory, liberation and their own ceremonial events.

The defeat of Hitler's Germany was the result of the combined efforts of the Soviet Union and 53 countries of the anti-Hitler coalition. Participants of the Resistance movements in the occupied countries also made a contribution, their numbers reaching 1.5 million people by the summer of 1944. Underground anti-fascist cells functioned even in the death camps of Hitler's Germany, whose prisoners numbered 18 million people from various countries. Of these, more than 11 million died as a result of inhumane treatment and mass killings.

Victory in World War II, the largest and most destructive conflict in human history, was the result of the united efforts of many peoples who rose up against fascist aggression. Nevertheless, the peoples of the USSR and its armed forces had decisive importance for the victorious outcome of the war.

In 1944–1945 the Soviet Union carried out a liberating mission in Europe, putting an end to fascist domination over a significant part of the continent and preserving the statehood and historical borders of many peoples. The Red Army, having liberated the territory of the USSR, saved from Nazism the citizens of Europe totaling 120 million people. More than 1 million Soviet soldiers and officers died on the European battlefields.

The Great Patriotic War, being part of World War II, demanded enormous sacrifices from the peoples of the USSR, amounting to 27 million lives. The material damage to the country was significant, amounting to about 30% of national wealth, and in the occupied territories – about 67%.

The memory of those terrible years must not fade. Today, when the world again faces manifestations of extremism and intolerance, the lessons of the past acquire particular urgency. It is important to remember that fascism and Nazism are not only historical phenomena, but ongoing threats that require sustained, focused attention and active counteraction.

The numerous crimes against humanity committed by Hitler's Nazi regime, such as the Holocaust, are forever and unequivocally inscribed in history as examples of the extreme manifestation of evil. The systematic extermination of millions of people on national, racial or ideological grounds became a terrible warning about where an inhumane ideology can lead. No political or geopolitical circumstances can serve as justification for such cruelty.

Preserving historical truth, countering the falsification of history and combating all forms of discrimination are the common responsibility of peoples toward those who fought and died for a shared future. 

Eternal memory to all who sacrificed their lives in the struggle against them!

Their feat is an inexhaustible source of inspiration and a reminder of the value of peace and human life.