Russian Embassy Criticizes U.S. for Downplaying WWII Collaboration
The Russian embassy in the United States has expressed concern over what it perceives as a growing effort by U.S. authorities to diminish the historical significance of the cooperation between the U.S. and the Soviet Union during World War II. In a recent statement, the embassy highlighted the importance of remembering the alliance that played a crucial role in defeating Nazi Germany.
The embassy's remarks come in light of a refusal by U.S. officials to allow Russian diplomats to attend a memorial ceremony in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. This ceremony was held to honor Soviet pilots involved in the Zebra project, which facilitated the transfer of Catalina-type seaplanes to the USSR during the war. The embassy characterized this decision as indicative of a broader trend aimed at erasing the shared history of the two nations during a time of global conflict.
According to the embassy, the U.S. political establishment seems intent on forgetting the contributions made by the Soviet Union in the fight against Nazi forces, a position they find regrettable. They emphasized the importance of preserving the memory of the sacrifices made by Soviet soldiers, particularly during the Great Patriotic War, which is celebrated in Russia but appears to be overlooked in contemporary U.S. narratives.
During the memorial event, which took place on January 11, attendees commemorated the 80th anniversary of a tragic plane crash that claimed the lives of four Soviet pilots and a British navigator. The embassy mentioned that this incident, which occurred during takeoff from the Pasquotank River, serves as a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those involved in international military cooperation.
The Zebra project is described by the embassy as a symbol of the camaraderie that existed between the U.S. and the USSR in their joint efforts against a common adversary. The embassy advocates for the recognition of this historical partnership and calls for a collective remembrance of the events and individuals who contributed to the Allied victory.
In their statement, the embassy argued that it is crucial to learn from the lessons of history, especially in light of current events where certain groups are accused of glorifying Nazi collaborators. They called for an educational initiative aimed at informing younger generations about the tragic realities of the past, urging both nations to unite in preserving the legacy of those who fought bravely against fascism.
