**Ukraine’s Leader Slams Russia for ‘Cult of Death’ on WWII Victory Day**
In a passionate address from Kyiv’s Independence Square, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy sharply criticized Russia’s celebrations of 9 May, World War II Victory Day. He accused the Kremlin of turning this remembrance into a “cynical cult of death”, highlighting the stark contrast between Ukraine’s dignified commemorations and Russia’s militarized parades.
**From Soviet Era to Putin’s Aggression**
Since the Soviet era, the 9 May celebrations have evolved from a somber remembrance of peace and sacrifice to a display of military power. Under Vladimir Putin, this day has become an opportunity for Russian authorities to reinforce patriotic narratives and legitimize state policies, including its current aggression. In contrast, Ukraine celebrates the end of WWII with Europe on 8 May.
**Global Unity Needed**
Zelenskyy urged global unity to confront modern fascism, saying “They repeat the evil. The world has seen it.” He recalled that exactly three years ago, Russia’s full-scale invasion began on May 9, 2022, echoing past tyranny. The Ukrainian president emphasized that Ukraine remembers its dead with dignity, while Russia glorifies war.
**Russia’s Paradoxical Parade**
Zelenskyy condemned the Kremlin’s attempts to monopolize WWII memory, pointing out the grotesque irony that those who committed atrocities in Bucha will speak of Nazi crimes, and those who blockaded Mariupol will recall the siege of Leningrad. He ridiculed Putin’s self-glorification as though he had personally raised the victory flag over Berlin.
**Honoring Ukraine’s Heroes**
Zelenskyy honored the legacy of his grandfather, who fought in WWII, and noted that nearly every Ukrainian family now has a hero fighting modern-day aggression. He visited the memory site for fallen soldiers on Independence Square, surrounded by flags, portraits, and candles—proof, he said, of the moral chasm separating Ukraine from its aggressor.
**Change is Inevitable**
Concluding his address, Zelenskyy underlined that change is inevitable: either Russia must transform, or the world must. Just as in WWII, appeasing evil is not an option; it must be resisted.
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