The message reads, in part:
“This holiday carries profound moral significance and holds a prominent place both in the Jewish religious calendar and in the hearts of millions. It enshrines the memory of the great deed of soldiers and commanders of the Red Army and the allied powers in the anti-Hitler coalition, who honourably fulfilled their high mission of liberation, crushing Nazism and saving the Jewish people and other peoples of Europe and the world from the threat of total annihilation.
I am convinced that the broad and solemn observance of the Day of Salvation and Liberation will continue to help preserve the religious, historical, and cultural traditions of Russian Jews, strengthening harmony and mutual understanding among people and promoting enduring spiritual, moral, humanistic, and patriotic ideals and values in society. Together with future generations, we must safeguard the truth about World War II and be aware of the devastating consequences of any tolerance for nationalism, anti-Semitism, racism, and xenophobia.
And, of course, our warmest, most sincere words of recognition and gratitude go to our veterans – to battle-front soldiers and homefront workers. Your life journey is a perfect example of resilience and unwavering faith in goodness and justice.”