Poland marks VE Day with warning about Soviet legacy

On the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, the Polish foreign ministry highlighted the lasting impact of Soviet domination in Central and Eastern Europe for decades after the war.

Poland on Thursday marked 80 years since Victory in Europe Day with ceremonies at sites including Warsaw’s Wesoła district, where the Polish Army's Tadeusz Kościuszko Armored Brigade is headquartered.

Photo: PAP/Przemysław Piątkowski

"Eighty years ago, WWII ended in Europe. For many, it meant freedom. For millions, it also marked the start of another occupation. The USSR - now Russia - took control over liberated nations and plundered them for its own gain," Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a commemorative message shared on social media.

The post included an animated video reflecting the personal stories of many Poles who, despite the fall of Nazi Germany thanks to the joint efforts of the Allies, soon found themselves under Soviet rule.

❗️ 80 years ago, WWII ended in Europe. For many, it meant freedom. For millions, it also marked the start of another occupation.

The USSR — now Russia — took control over liberated nations and plundered them for its own gain.#VictoryParade #Victory80 #StopRussianRevisionism pic.twitter.com/KMmpp91YhD

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs ?￰ﾟﾇﾱ (@PolandMFA) May 8, 2025

The ministry emphasized in the video’s description that May 8, 1945 offered only fleeting hope to many in the region, followed by decades of repression.

It also warned that Russia continues to use terms such as “liberation,” “independence,” and “autonomy” as tools to expand influence and exploit other nations for its own benefit.

A military ceremony in Warsaw’s Wesoła district marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. Photo: PAP/Przemysław Piątkowski

(mp/gs)

Source: MSZ/X/@PolandMFA

Click on the player icon above for an audio report by Marcin Matuszewski.