Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism in World War II

On May 8, Karazin University joins the nationwide commemoration of the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism. For over a decade, Ukraine has marked this day in the European spirit — not as a triumph, but as a tribute to the millions of lives lost, to the tragedy, and to the immense cost humanity paid for peace.

World War II was the greatest catastrophe of the 20th century — behind it lie shattered destinies, millions of deaths, and an unending struggle against totalitarian regimes. For Ukraine, the war began as early as September 1, 1939, with the bombings of Lviv and other cities. From June 22, 1941, the entire territory of Ukraine became a battleground of bloody conflict. During the war, about 7 million Ukrainians were mobilized into the Red Army — half of them perished, and the other half returned disabled.

Ukrainians fought not only in Soviet ranks — they were part of the Allied armies, the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), the resistance, at the front lines and in the rear. They resisted Nazism in every corner of the world, proving their commitment to freedom.

But this victory did not bring freedom to Ukraine — Nazi occupation was replaced by communist terror. The Soviet regime unleashed new waves of repression, deportations, artificial famines, and destruction of national and religious identity. After 1945, the Ukrainian people continued their struggle — now for dignity and the right to be masters of their own land.

Today, in 2025, this day holds even deeper meaning. Ukraine has once again become the frontier of a civilizational choice — our defenders are fighting not only for their land but also for freedom, democracy, and peace for the entire continent. Rashism — a modern incarnation of a criminal ideology, hiding behind the “victory” in World War II while waging bloody aggression against Ukraine and the world — is a direct continuation of totalitarian evil. Today, just as 80 years ago, Ukrainians resist imperial ambitions and offer the world a chance for a new security system — just and resilient.

It is crucial to remember: the war of 1939–1945 became possible because of the collusion of two totalitarian regimes — Nazi and Soviet — and the inaction of powerful states. That is why we must learn from the lessons of the past and not allow history to repeat itself. Indecision and silence in the face of aggression have always bred new crimes. Today, the international community has the opportunity to show solidarity and determination in the fight against rashism.

Karazin University calls on everyone to remember the heroes of the past, to honor the victims of war, and at the same time — to remain strong, united, and principled in the fight for the future. We are obliged to educate young people not only in historical facts but also in the ability to draw conclusions, think critically, seek the truth, and defend it.

A dedicated website by the Ukrainian Institute of National Remembrance is available at the link, providing information on key events, historical figures, maps, infographics, photo galleries, videos, and e-publications about the war, along with the film collection “20,000 Minutes That Will Change Your Perception of World War II” and other projects.