Zelensky's 80-year address: "Russia is behaving like fascism - demilitarization is a must"

On May 8, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in European countries, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the nation in a video message. The President walked along Kyiv’s central Khreshchatyk street, filming himself with a personal camera and addressing the global community.

"Ukraine was on the battlefield against Nazism then — and still is today"

The main message of the address emphasized that Ukraine is a country that fought for Europe’s freedom from Nazism in the past and continues to do so today. Zelensky stated that over 8 million Ukrainians died in World War II and that this tragedy still lives in the memory of almost every family.

"There is a photo in every home. It is not just memory, but vigilance and a lesson. We remember and defend our history," the Ukrainian leader said.

The Moscow parade — under the slogan “We can do it again”

Zelensky sharply criticized the traditional military parade scheduled in Moscow on May 9. He connected it with the phrase “We can do it again,” arguing that the historical and moral essence of the event is being distorted.

"Those who created mass graves in Bucha speak about fascism. Those who blockaded Mariupol speak about the siege of Leningrad. They use history not to honor it, but to insult it," Zelensky said firmly.

"If Russia does not change — it must be demilitarized"

In the final part of his address, Zelensky spoke even more decisively. According to him, if Russia does not change its political course, the international community must consider demilitarization.

"Russia must either change, or the world will act to stop it. A regime that repeats the signs of war, aggression, and fascism must face a response," he said.

Europe, and the world as a whole, stands on the threshold of change — the struggle between peace and justice continues.

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