Ambassador of Russia to Bosnia and Herzegovina Igor Kalabukhov addressed the public on the occasion of the Victory Parade in Moscow, marking the 81st anniversary of the victory over fascism.
Kalabukhov stated that this victory represents one of the most crucial events in world history, as it removed the existential threat of fascism and set humanity on a path of peace, development, and cooperation. He emphasized the decisive role of the Soviet Red Army in defeating Nazism, noting that Soviet soldiers liberated numerous countries in Central and Eastern Europe, including Yugoslavia.
He recalled that the defeat of Nazi Germany was formally concluded with the signing of the act of unconditional surrender on May 9, 1945, and highlighted the importance of preserving historical memory. He also mentioned that Russia recently introduced a remembrance day for victims of genocide against the Soviet people, established by Vladimir Putin.
According to Kalabukhov, around 14 million Soviet civilians perished due to Nazi policies of extermination, and justice was delivered through the Nuremberg Trials, which confirmed the criminal nature of Nazi ideology.
He underlined that the victory is a shared legacy, noting that alongside the Soviet Union, the Serbian people resisted occupation from the beginning to the end of the war. Soldiers of the Red Army and the Yugoslav Partisan forces fought side by side.
Kalabukhov stressed the duty to preserve the memory of that victory and oppose attempts to revise history, glorify Nazism, or deny the Soviet Union’s key role in its defeat.
Referring to current events, he stated that Russian forces continue the traditions of their predecessors, framing ongoing efforts as a fight against modern forms of Nazism. He expressed confidence that Russia will achieve its strategic objectives and thanked the leadership and people of Republika Srpska for supporting the preservation of historical memory and strengthening bilateral ties.
Kalabukhov concluded by announcing the live broadcast of the Victory Parade from Red Square, describing it as one of the main symbols of the holiday, honoring veterans and connecting past and present through collective remembrance.
Source: RTRS
