Moscow:
Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin has stated that the decision to change the name of Volgograd back to Stalingrad, its name during the time of the Soviet victory over Nazi invaders in World War Two, should be left to the residents of the city. This discussion has resurfaced ahead of the 80th-anniversary commemorations of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany.
When asked about restoring the city’s former name, Putin acknowledged the historical significance of the battle but emphasized that the decision should ultimately be made by the residents. He mentioned that there is merit in the idea, as the name is closely tied to the victory, but the opinions of the majority of residents need to be considered.
Recently, Putin issued a decree renaming Volgograd airport to Stalingrad to honor the Soviet people’s victory in the Great Patriotic War. The city, originally named Stalingrad, was changed to Volgograd in 1961 as part of the destalinization process.
As the world prepares to mark this significant anniversary, with ceremonies planned to commemorate the occasion, Putin’s comparison of the current situation in Ukraine to the fight against Nazis has stirred controversy.
The battle of Stalingrad, known as one of the bloodiest battles of World War Two, played a crucial role in breaking the German invasion forces. The war resulted in the loss of millions of Soviet citizens, with Ukraine suffering significant destruction and casualties.
(This article is auto-generated and may not have been reviewed by NDTV staff)
