Putin Writes Letter on 80th Anniversary of Auschwitz Liberation

Written by Asger Risom

Jan.27 - 2025 7:35 PM CET

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Photo: Shutterstock
Photo: Shutterstock
Russian leader emphasizes Soviet role in defeating Nazi Germany

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According to Super Express, Russian President Vladimir Putin issued an official statement on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, highlighting the role of the Soviet Red Army in ending Nazi atrocities.

The letter, published on the Kremlin's website on January 27—International Holocaust Remembrance Day—was addressed to "participants and guests of the ceremony," despite Putin not being invited to the event.

In his statement, Putin begins with the words "Dear friends" and stresses the importance of remembering the Holocaust and the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany.

"Soviet soldier crushed this terrible evil," says Putin

Putin’s message emphasizes the Red Army’s role in liberating Auschwitz in January 1945, describing it as a defining moment that revealed the truth about Nazi crimes.

"We will always remember that it was the Soviet soldier who crushed this terrible, total evil and won a victory whose greatness will forever remain in world history," he wrote.

The Russian leader asserted that the country's citizens are "descendants of the victors" and vowed to resist any attempts to alter historical narratives regarding World War II.

He also pledged to defend people's right to ethnic and cultural identity, while condemning anti-Semitism, Russophobia, and other forms of discrimination.

Putin thanks those preserving historical truth

In his concluding remarks, Putin expressed gratitude to those dedicated to preserving historical truth and combating what he described as "neo-Nazi revanchism."

He acknowledged the efforts of the Russian Jewish community and the organizers of Holocaust commemoration events, encouraging them to continue their work in promoting peace and human values.

Despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Putin used the occasion to frame Russia as a guardian of historical memory and justice.