Last week, President Trump made headlines by announcing plans to declare May 8 as “Victory Day” in the United States. This date marks the signing of Germany’s surrender, which ended World War II in Europe. Trump emphasized that the U.S. played a significant role in achieving victory, claiming it did more than any other nation.
His statement quickly drew sharp criticism, particularly from Russian officials. Dmitry Medvedev, a former president of Russia and a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, dismissed Trump’s remarks as “pretentious nonsense.” Medvedev highlighted the immense sacrifices made by the Soviet Union during the war, stating that 27 million Russians lost their lives in the fight against fascism. He insisted that Victory Day belongs to Russia and is celebrated on May 9.
The timing of Trump’s announcement is notable. Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9 have evolved into a grand display of national pride under Putin, often overshadowing the contributions of other nations, including Ukraine. Despite the historical significance of Russia’s role, many argue that Ukraine’s contributions were equally vital. Millions of Ukrainians served in the Soviet Army, and Ukraine suffered devastating losses during the war.
The narrative that the Soviet Union was the primary force behind the defeat of Nazi Germany has persisted for decades, fueled by Soviet propaganda and embraced by some Western scholars. However, this view is increasingly challenged. Critics argue that the victory in Europe was a collective effort involving multiple Allied nations, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
While Trump’s proclamation of May 8 as Victory Day is controversial, it raises important questions about how history is remembered and celebrated. Many historians contend that the war was not truly won until Japan’s surrender on August 15, 1945, known as V-J Day. On May 8, U.S. forces were still heavily engaged in battles in the Pacific, including Okinawa, and the fight against Japan was far from over.
Moreover, the role of U.S. support through Lend-Lease, which provided crucial supplies to the Soviet Union, is often downplayed in Russian narratives. This aid included thousands of aircraft and tanks, as well as vital logistical support that helped sustain the Red Army during critical phases of the war.
As the debate continues, it’s clear that the memory of World War II is a sensitive subject, particularly in Russia. Medvedev’s comments reflect a broader effort to assert Russia’s historical narrative, while Trump’s remarks seem aimed at countering that narrative.
Ultimately, the discussion about who contributed most to the victory in World War II is complex. It involves not just military strategies and battles but also the sacrifices made by countless individuals across multiple nations. As both leaders assert their versions of history, the importance of recognizing all contributions to the war effort remains crucial.