On May 8 and 9, countries around the world mark Victory Day, commemorating the end of World War II. On this occasion, President of the Euro-Asian Jewish Congress Dr. Michael Mirilashvili issued a special statement:

„The memory of World War II is not just a matter of history — it is a mirror of our present. We bow our heads before the millions of victims and the heroes who stood against one of the most devastating forces of destruction in human history. Among the Allied forces were 1.5 million Jewish soldiers, including over half a million who served in the Red Army. They spoke different languages, wore different uniforms, but were united by one goal — to save the world from absolute evil and to defend their freedom. Some of these heroes live among us today, in Israel. Their grandchildren and great-grandchildren are our neighbors, friends, and colleagues. And we remember that their sacrifice gave us freedom.”

„Eighty years on, we are witnessing the rise of antisemitism, violence, and hatred — once again fueled by the same rhetoric that led the world into catastrophe. This is precisely why the memory of World War II must remain above politics and beyond temporary alliances. It must be upheld as a universal legacy — a foundation for collective responsibility toward the future.”

„On these days — May 8 and 9 — let us remember: the Allies did not win because they agreed on everything, but because they knew how to stand together. That is one of history’s greatest lessons. And it is on each of us to ensure that the horror of world war is never repeated.”

On picture: Happy 2nd Lt. William Robertson and Lt. Alexander Sylvashko, Red Army, shown in front of sign [East Meets West] symbolizing the historic meeting of the Soviet and American Armies, near Torgau, Germany on Elbe Day.

Pfc. William E. Poulson