Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed participants at a gathering of the Council of Heads of Government of the Commonwealth of Independent States, underscoring the critical task of resisting the falsification of history and the glorification of Nazism. The remarks were disseminated by the Kremlin press service, highlighting a shared commitment to truth and remembrance across the member states.
Putin emphasized that the partnership among CIS leaders should extend to preserving the memory of their common past while actively countering efforts to distort historical events and rehabilitate extremist ideologies. He framed this work as a collective mission that requires vigilance, education, and a consistent chorus of voices that defend the memory of those who suffered and fought during the conflicts that shaped the region.
The president drew particular attention to movements and initiatives that aim to inform the public about the history of wartime sacrifice and patriotism. He pointed to campaigns and commemorative projects such as those that illuminate the lives of soldiers, the lessons of battles, and the ways communities stayed resilient in the face of hardship. These efforts, he noted, help keep alive the memory of the sacrifices made and the moral lessons learned from the past, ensuring that new generations understand the price of freedom.
In late October, Putin reiterated the warning that defeating Nazi criminals and those who supported their crimes is essential because excusing or erasing their actions leads to fresh tragedies. He asserted that the truth about the Great Patriotic War must be defended to prevent a recurrence of terror and to honor the enduring memory of millions who endured immense suffering and made profound sacrifices for victory and peace.
Additionally, Putin reaffirmed the necessity of a firm and principled response to manifestations of Russophobia, racism, and Nazism. He argued that hostile ideas and discrimination pose threats not only to Russia but to the broader regional security framework and the shared values that bind diverse societies within the CIS. The emphasis was on proactive measures—educational, cultural, and political—that counter hatred and promote a more accurate and respectful understanding of history across borders.