MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke out against forces causing division, urging joint action at the Great Heritage, a Common Future forum. In his address, Putin calls for unity across racial, ethnic, and religious lines and emphasized preventing the return of Nazism.
Countering Intolerance and Nazism’s Return
Putin stressed the need for coordinated international efforts for equal security. “We must do everything possible to resist the revival of Nazism,” he asserted. He specifically mentioned combating “the spread of the destructive ideas of Russophobia, anti-Semitism, and any form of racism, ethnic and religious intolerance.”
Preserving Historical Memory: A Joint Commission
President Putin proposed establishing a new commission dedicated to history. This body would include experts from both Russia and Belarus. Its purpose is to preserve the memory of the Great Patriotic War (World War II). Putin envisions the commission uniting citizens to “defend the truth” about the war. Putin calls for unity in protecting this shared historical narrative.
Envisioning a Different World Order
Looking globally, Putin outlined his view of a necessary new world order. This order, he said, must guarantee equal security for every state without threatening others. He promoted the idea of Eurasia becoming “a space of peace and stability,” offering it as an alternative to Western models. Putin sharply criticized what he called “exceptionalism,” describing it as a justification for global dominance and meddling in the affairs of sovereign nations.
By Abiodun Labi
