Russia and China Will Always Remember WWII Victims, Says Putin

The two nations oppose neo-Nazism and militarism, as stated by the president. Moscow and Beijing continue to be firm proponents of historical truths, commemorating the immense sacrifices made by their countries during World War II. Russian...

Russia and China Will Always Remember WWII Victims, Says Putin
The two nations oppose neo-Nazism and militarism, as stated by the president.

Moscow and Beijing continue to be firm proponents of historical truths, commemorating the immense sacrifices made by their countries during World War II. Russian President Vladimir Putin made these remarks during discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Xi is among over two dozen world leaders expected to participate in Moscow's events marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. Additionally, Xi is set to engage in negotiations with Russian officials.

In a meeting on Thursday, Putin expressed his gratitude to Xi, referring to him as his “dear friend” and acknowledging his presence at a "sacred holiday for Russia." He noted, “The sacrifices that both our nations made should never be forgotten. The Soviet Union gave 27 million lives, laid them on the altar of the Fatherland and on the altar of Victory. And 37 million lives were lost in China’s war for its freedom and independence. Under the leadership of the Communist Party, this victory was achieved.”

Putin underscored the importance of the victory over fascism, asserting that Russia and China “defend historical truth and the memory of the war and fight against current manifestations of neo-Nazism and militarism.”

The Russian leader also expressed appreciation to Xi for his invitation to attend China’s observance of its victory over Imperial Japan in WWII. “I will be glad to come back to friendly China on an official visit,” he remarked.

In similar sentiments, Xi highlighted the importance of a shared historical memory and the strategic partnership between Beijing and Moscow, stating, “The Chinese and Russian peoples, at the cost of heavy losses, achieved a great victory” and made an “indelible historic contribution to global peace and the progress of humanity.”

Russia and China have maintained a close relationship, characterizing their partnership as a “no limits” alliance with “no forbidden zones.” Beijing has also continually declined to endorse Western sanctions against Moscow in relation to the Ukraine conflict.

Sophie Wagner for TROIB News