Russian President Vladimir Putin has claimed that "many European countries" were complicit in the Siege of Leningrad during World War II. This statement was made by Putin during the 80th-anniversary events commemorating the breakthrough of the Siege of Leningrad.
According to Ukrainian Pravda, Putin's comments mark a significant shift in the historical narrative surrounding the Siege of Leningrad, a pivotal event in World War II.
He stated, "Representatives of many European countries took part in the Siege of Leningrad and committed crimes. We have never talked about this before because of a certain tolerance and in order not to spoil relations, not to ruin the background of our relations."
However, Putin did not specify which European countries he was referring to.
Putin's Perspective on History
Known for his alternative historical views, Putin has previously expressed beliefs that challenge established historical narratives. For instance, he asserts that Ukraine was a creation of Lenin and has written pseudo-historical articles about Ukrainians and Russians being "one nation."
This latest claim about the Siege of Leningrad adds to a growing list of historical reinterpretations by the Russian leader.
Putin's recent statement raises questions about the motives behind this reinterpretation of history and its potential impact on contemporary international relations.
