Exploitation of Memorial by Russian Propaganda: Misuse of Iconic War Memorial
Revitalized Remembrance Clash: The Ongoing "Memory War" between Russia and Ukraine
On May 8th, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, a profound and increasingly politically-charged "memory war" between Russia and Ukraine rages on. Historian Corinna Kuhr-Korolev, in an interview with ntv.de, sheds light on the divisive power struggle over World War II remembrance and its far-reaching impact on both nations.
What Role for Russia in "Victory Day" Celebrations?
Russia marks the 9th of May each year as the day of the victory of the Red Army over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War. These celebrations carry great fanfare, with planning beginning a year ahead and widespread military parades across the nation. The celebrations, however, constitute a subtle yet critical statement of strength, both internally and externally, as Russia seeks global recognition of its historical achievements and role in world politics.
Origin of the Annual Military Parades
Initially, the day was not commemorated in the Soviet Union. It gradually transformed into an official holiday, with military parades on Red Square in Moscow being held only during major anniversaries, such as 1965, 1975, 1985, and 1990. The tradition saw a resurgence in the early 2000s, following Putin's rise to power, morphing into a more aggressive and militaristic display.
Historical consequences
The physical show of military might is not merely an expression of patriotism but a mental preparation for territorial claims and territorial disputes. This phenomenon has dramatically illustrated the potential dangers that "Victory Day" parades pose.
Global Awareness and Russian Influence
In an effort to exert influence on the global stage, Russia invites foreign representatives to attend its "Victory Day" celebrations. Putin is adamant about gaining international recognition of Russia's historical achievements and asserting its position as a leading world power.
The Double-Edged Sword of the Liberation Act
The official surrender was signed in two different places on two separate days. The German supreme commanders of the army, navy, and air force signed the unconditional surrender on May 7, 1945, at the Western Allies' headquarters in Reims, France. However, the following night, Stalin insisted on a second signing in the Soviet headquarters in Berlin-Karlshorst, resulting in differing historical perspectives that have been at the heart of the "memory war."
"Memory War": Soviet-Baltic, Polish, Ukrainian Perspectives
In recent years, history has been weaponized once more, with territorial power claims emerging through historical arguments. Under the guise of remembering the end of the war, patronizing rhetoric, and questionable historical interpretations, Russia justifies its aggressive actions and territorial ambitions. The Baltic nations, Poland, and Ukraine have each experienced varying degrees of persecution and oppression during Soviet occupation, perceiving contemporary Russian policies as a resurgence of imperial ambitions. The political tensions between these nations and Russia are vividly reflected in contrasting perspectives on the historical significance of the 9th of May.
Stagnant and Shifting Alliances
Today, participating in Russia's "Victory Day" parade on Red Square signifies a political statement of allegiance to Putin's historically distorted truth and the justification of his aggression in Ukraine. This day has become a powerful symbol, with those choosing to celebrate the 9th of May gaining a direct insight into their political affiliations.
Many former Soviet republics celebrate "Victory Day," albeit in a modest fashion compared to Russia. Some have subtly rebranded the holiday to distance themselves from their Soviet heritage. The Baltic states choose not to celebrate since they view the 9th of May as a day that represents the continued oppression under Soviet occupation.
Ukraine: Navigating the Complexities of World War II Remembrance
Ukraine has maintained Victory Day celebrations following its independence from the Soviet Union. However, tensions between Russia and Ukraine have led Ukraine to commemorate May 8th as the "Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation," beginning in 2016. In the summer of 2023, the designation was changed to "Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II 1939-1945," emphasizing Ukraine's unique experiences during the war and its proud history as a key player in the fight against Nazi Germany.
The Enduring Impact of the "Memory War" between Russia and Ukraine
The "memory war" between Russia and Ukraine, fueled by political ambitions, has eroded trust, divided nations, and influenced regional politics. The manipulation of historical narratives and the politicization of the past have made it difficult to move forward and build harmony between competing national identities. Until the lasting wounds of World War II can be acknowledged and mended with honesty, the prospects for a peaceful and cooperative future are grim.
In a thoughtful conversation with Rebecca Wegmann, historian Corinna Kuhr-Korolev shares her insights
Source: ntv.de
Additional Insights:
- Historical Context: During World War II, the Soviet Union, including Ukraine, experienced immense human losses. The war cemented the Soviet narrative of unity in the face of invasion, setting the stage for the political tensions seen today.
- Competing Narratives: Russia and Ukraine both rewrite their historical narratives to assert their political objectives and national identities. Ukraine emphasizes its distinctive experiences, while Russia manipulates its history to legitimate ongoing aggression in Ukraine.
- Cultural and National Identity: Both nations rely on their national legends to create a sense of unity, with a focus on the struggle against fascism and a rejection of any Western interference.
- International Perception: The conflicting interpretations of history influence international perceptions, with Russia's narrative conceding some sway among those who hold sympathetic views of the nation's anti-fascist stance.
- Historical Revisionism: This "memory war" involves extensive historical revisions, with Russia selectively highlighting aspects of history that align with its objectives and downplaying or distorting others.
- The European Union, echoing the Baltic nations, Poland, and Ukraine, perceives Russia's commemorations of the 9th of May as a resurgence of imperial ambitions, rooted in the historical narratives shaped during World War II.
- The European Union, striving for political unity, acknowledges the potential exploits of politics managing historical remembrance and the Europen Union's member nations' interpretation of the "Victory Day" celebrations varies, with some distancing themselves from the Soviet heritage.
- Amidst the ongoing "memory war" between Russia and Ukraine, the European Union, grappling with its general-news divisions, continues to bear witness to the manipulation of historical narratives, which ultimately divides nations and influences regional politics.
- In true European Union spirit, a critical assessment of the influences of the "memory war" between Russia and Ukraine becomes necessary to move forward and mend the lasting wounds of World War II with honesty, fostering harmony between competing national identities and averting future political tensions.
