Russian Ambassador to Thailand Yevgeny Tomilin recently spoke to Thai media about the significance of Victory Day, which commemorates the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. On May 9, Russians and people around the world honored the bravery and sacrifices made during the war.
A Lesson from History
Tominin stressed the importance of understanding the difference between patriotism and nationalism, and the dangers of ideologies that promote superiority over others. Russia has made a concerted effort to teach its history, starting from kindergarten, to ensure that future generations learn from the past. Visitors to Russia often see people paying their respects at memorials, such as the eternal flame at the Kremlin wall.
For Russians, the memory of World War II is personal. Almost every family has a story of loss or sacrifice. Tominin’s own family has been affected, with relatives serving in the military and suffering injuries. Russian President Vladimir Putin lost his older brother during the war.
A Warning from the Past
These stories highlight the importance of preserving the memory of the war and its lessons. As the number of survivors dwindles, it is crucial to protect the historical narrative and prevent the resurgence of extremist ideologies. Tominin noted that some countries are attempting to distort or erase historical events, glorifying Nazi collaborators and using similar symbols.
Tominin expressed concern that some nations are celebrating Nazi SS units and using symbols associated with them, under the guise of opposing Russia. This ignores the atrocities committed during the war and the suffering of those who fought against Nazi Germany. Russia’s commemoration of Victory Day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving historical memory and promoting a culture of peace.
The ambassador’s words serve as a warning: the world must remain vigilant against the resurgence of dangerous ideologies and ensure that the lessons of history are not forgotten.
In the past, Russia won the Battle of Stalingrad, marking a turning point in the war. Today, Russia continues its efforts to prevent the return of extremist ideologies. The world needs to stay alert to the dangers of the past.