German President Condemns Russian Lies, US Breach Values at WWII 80th Commemoration

On the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier condemned Russia's narrative framing its invasion of Ukraine as a fight against fascism, calling it a "historical lie" that whitewashes imperialism and crimes. Steinmeier emphasized that Putin's aggressive war against a free, democratic Ukraine bears no resemblance to the fight against Nazi tyranny during World War II. He also criticized the current U.S. administration under President Donald Trump for policies that risk undermining support for Ukraine, describing this as a breach of values. Steinmeier praised the Soviet Red Army's role in defeating Nazi Germany, highlighting the joint efforts of Russian and Ukrainian troops in liberating Auschwitz, while reiterating Germany's responsibility for Nazi crimes. The German parliament's commemoration underscored the importance of remembering history accurately amid ongoing conflict, with many Western and Kyiv officials rejecting Moscow's justifications for the war. Meanwhile, Russia planned a large Victory Day parade, reflecting its contrasting narrative of the war's legacy.