U.S. Embassy Dushanbe
May 6, 2022
Statement of Ambassador Pommersheim on the Eve of the 77th Anniversary of Victory in Europe Day
The U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe congratulates the people of Tajikistan on the upcoming 77th anniversary of the Victory of Allied Forces over Nazism in World War II. We honor the contributions and sacrifices of over 250,000 Tajiks who served among the 34 million members of the Red Army in alliance with the United States, the United Kingdom, Poland, Free France, and other Allies. American members of our embassy community will mark this day by remembering grandparents who were among the 16 million Americans who served in the War. Together, our allied forces fought to ensure that the horrors of World War II would never be repeated.
While we celebrate May 9th as a victory for peace, an independent country that was liberated from Nazi occupation then is once again under attack. The entire world is watching as the Russian military destroys villages, cities, and countless innocent lives in Ukraine. President Putin has ordered his forces to fight a premeditated and unprovoked war against Ukraine – the largest assault on a European state since World War II. Russia’s forces have bombed Ukraine’s hospitals, executed its citizens, and traumatized its children. In the modern world, these heinous actions cannot and will not be hidden. There is simply no justification for this war of choice.
As we approach Victory Day, free peoples once again declare that tyranny and occupation cannot be allowed to succeed. Just as the Allied Forces of World War II fought until Victory Day was achieved in 1945, we recognize the bravery of the Ukrainians as they seek to defend their freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. As U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has stated, “We salute the armed forces of Ukraine and all Ukrainian citizens who are defending their country with great skill, iron will, and profound courage.”
Let us remember our shared history and do what is right and just today. Congratulations to the people of Tajikistan on Victory Day!
