Putin Criticizes WWII History Revisionism in Diplomatic Context with Netanyahu

 Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated his strong opposition to attempts to revise the history of World War II, emphasizing the Soviet Union’s pivotal role in defeating Nazi Germany. While no specific call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been publicly documented in 2025, Putin’s remarks align with his frequent statements on the issue, often made during diplomatic engagements with global leaders. Given Russia and Israel’s ongoing dialogue over Middle Eastern affairs, including Syria and Iran, it is plausible that such a conversation could have occurred, focusing on historical narratives and contemporary geopolitics.

Putin has long condemned what he calls “distortions” of WWII history, particularly efforts in some Western and Eastern European countries to downplay the Red Army’s contributions or equate Soviet actions with Nazi aggression. He has pointed to actions like the removal of Soviet war memorials in Poland and the Baltic states as examples of revisionism that undermine the sacrifices of 27 million Soviet citizens. 

In a recent speech marking the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, Putin stressed that the USSR’s role in liberating Europe, including the rescue of Jewish communities from the Holocaust, must not be erased. He argued that revising history serves political agendas, such as justifying sanctions against Russia or fueling anti-Russian sentiment.

Israel, with its significant Russian-Jewish population and historical ties to the Soviet war effort, shares an interest in preserving Holocaust narratives, though tensions over Ukraine and Iran complicate its relationship with Russia. Netanyahu, who has maintained pragmatic ties with Putin, has previously acknowledged the Red Army’s role while navigating Israel’s alignment with Western allies. 

Any discussion between the two leaders would likely balance historical sensitivities with pressing issues like Iran’s nuclear ambitions and Russia’s military presence in Syria. Putin’s stance reflects his broader strategy to leverage WWII legacy to bolster Russia’s global standing, while Israel remains focused on securing its interests in a volatile region.