Putin and Netanyahu Discuss WWII History (photo credit - Times of Israel)
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently held a high-level discussion on the importance of preserving the historical truth of World War II. The conversation between Putin and Netanyahu, which took place via a phone call, focused on countering attempts to revise history and ensuring that the legacy of the war’s heroes remains intact.
May 9 marks a significant day for both Russia and Israel, as they commemorate pivotal moments in history. Russia’s Victory Day celebrates the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, while Israel’s commemoration honors the Jewish soldiers and partisans who fought against the Nazis. Though distinct in their narratives, both observances reflect a shared commitment to remembering the sacrifices made during one of history’s darkest periods.
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Preserving WWII History Amid Global Challenges
The discussion between Putin and Netanyahu comes at a time when historical narratives are increasingly being challenged. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the truth about the events of World War II, particularly the decisive role of the Red Army in defeating Nazi Germany.
Putin emphasized that Russia will not tolerate any attempts to distort historical facts, especially regarding the Soviet Union’s sacrifices during the war. Netanyahu echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of educating future generations about the true events of WWII.
Russia’s Victory Day & Israel’s Commemoration
The 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat, which Russia celebrates as Victory Day on May 9, was also discussed. In Israel, the same day is observed as a national holiday, honoring the millions of lives lost during the Holocaust and WWII.
Victory Day is Russia’s most important secular holiday, celebrated with grand military parades, speeches, and tributes to the millions of Soviet soldiers who perished in the war. The 2025 Victory Day parade in Moscow was one of the largest since the Ukraine conflict began, featuring over 11,500 troops, tanks, and nuclear missile launchers. President Vladimir Putin used the occasion to reinforce national pride and project Russia’s global influence.
The Soviet Union lost over 27 million people in the war, a staggering sacrifice that remains deeply embedded in Russia’s national identity. Victory Day serves as a reminder of resilience, unity, and the country’s enduring military strength.
In recognition of Israeli veterans’ services to the war effort, Putin asked Netanyahu to convey his greetings to them. The leaders agreed that historical revisionism must be actively countered, ensuring that the sacrifices of war heroes are never forgotten.
Israel’s Commemoration: Honoring Jewish Fighters
Israel also marks May 9 as a day of remembrance, recognizing the 1.5 million Jewish soldiers who fought in World War II, including 500,000 in the Soviet Red Army. The Knesset holds special sessions, and Yad Vashem hosts ceremonies to honor Jewish veterans and partisans.
This commemoration is particularly significant for Israel, as it acknowledges the Jewish contribution to the Allied victory and the fight against Nazi oppression. The Victory Monument in Netanya stands as a tribute to the Red Army’s role in defeating Hitler’s forces.
Global Concerns Over Historical Distortion
The discussion between Putin and Netanyahu comes amid growing concerns over historical distortion, particularly in Western narratives. Russia has repeatedly accused certain nations of downplaying the Soviet Union’s role in WWII, while Israel has been vocal about combating Holocaust denial.
In order to guarantee that educational institutions, media, and policymakers preserve the true history of WWII, both leaders emphasized the necessity of international cooperation. They also discussed bilateral relations, touching upon Middle Eastern security issues and ongoing geopolitical challenges.
Conclusion
The conversation between Putin and Netanyahu underscores the importance of historical accuracy, particularly regarding World War II. As both nations prepare to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat, their commitment to preserving historical truth remains stronger than ever.
With global narratives shifting, Russia and Israel continue to push back against historical revisionism, ensuring that the sacrifices of war heroes are honored and remembered.
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