History Daily: The Soviets Celebrate Victory Day

Episode Title: The Soviets Celebrate Victory Day
Release Date: May 9, 2025
Host: Lindsey Graham (American Scandal, American History Tellers)
Produced by: Airship, Noiser, Wondery

Introduction: The Prelude to Invasion

The episode opens with a gripping narrative set on June 21, 1941, near Poland's eastern border. German soldier Alfred Liskov defies orders to flee towards Soviet territory, driven by his Communist sympathies and determined to warn the Soviets of an impending German invasion. Despite his efforts, characterized by his desperate swim across a river and eventual capture by Soviet soldiers, Luskov's warning arrives too late.

Lindsey Graham (00:19): "Throughout the German invasion, the Soviet Union would suffer heavy casualties and numerous defeats. But contrary to the Nazis' expectations, the Soviets would not collapse under the pressure."

This introduction sets the stage for the Soviet Union's resilience against Nazi Germany, highlighting the turning points that would lead to Victory Day on May 9, 1945.

Soviet-German Negotiations and Betrayal

On November 12, 1940, Soviet Foreign Minister Vyacheslav Molotov arrives in Berlin to negotiate an alliance between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany. Initially, there is hope for collaboration, but negotiations falter due to conflicting territorial ambitions. Germany's rejection of the Soviet counterproposal marks the infamous betrayal, leading Hitler to sign a secret directive to invade the Soviet Union on June 22, 1941.

Lindsey Graham (03:23): "But unbeknownst to the Soviets, Hitler has been planning to enact a war of annihilation on the Soviet Union..."

This betrayal ignites one of the largest and most brutal fronts of World War II, setting the course for immense suffering and eventual Soviet victory.

The Siege of Leningrad: A Diary of Tragedy

The episode delves deep into the harrowing experiences of Tanya Savacheva, an 11-year-old girl in besieged Leningrad. Through her diary, listeners witness the devastating impact of the German blockade, which led to extreme famine and the death of Tanya's entire family over several months.

Lindsey Graham (03:23): "Tanya's diary will eventually be used during the Nuremberg trials as evidence of the Nazis' war crimes."

The Siege of Leningrad stands as one of the most lethal and brutal sieges in history, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1.5 million soldiers and civilians. Tanya's personal story epitomizes the unimaginable suffering endured by the Soviet populace.

The Battle of Stalingrad: Turning the Tide

Fast forward to November 11, 1942, at the Barricade Gun Factory in Stalingrad, the narrative follows Private Melia Rosenberg, a Soviet soldier entrenched in one of the war's deadliest battles. The Soviets, despite facing severe shortages and relentless German assaults, manage to launch a successful counteroffensive after enduring over a week of intense combat.

Lindsey Graham (11:34): "Against the odds, Melia and his comrades resist all assaults on their foothold."

The Battle of Stalingrad becomes a pivotal moment in World War II, culminating in the German surrender on February 2, 1943. This victory not only decimates the Axis forces but also marks a significant shift in momentum towards the Allies.

The Final Assault: Battle of Berlin

As the war nears its end, the episode narrates the catastrophic Battle of Berlin. On April 20, 1945, amidst relentless Soviet artillery and ground assaults, Dorothea von Schwanenflugel and her family endure the chaos of the advancing Red Army. The relentless fighting culminates in Hitler's suicide, signaling the inevitable fall of Nazi Germany.

Lindsey Graham (11:34): "Hitler commits suicide. His death spells the end for Nazi Germany and within two days, fighting in Berlin ceases."

Victory Day on May 9, 1945, commemorates the Soviet triumph, marking the end of World War II in Europe. However, the staggering Soviet casualties—over 20 million citizens—highlight the immense cost of this victory.

Aftermath: Seeds of the Cold War

The episode concludes by exploring the profound aftermath of Victory Day. The immense loss suffered by the Soviet Union sowed deep-seated resentment and distrust towards the West, particularly the United States. This tension, coupled with contentious post-war negotiations, laid the groundwork for the ensuing Cold War—a prolonged period of geopolitical tension lasting over five decades.

Lindsey Graham (11:34): "This unparalleled cost will remain a point of resentment for the Soviets, many of whom will accuse the United States of intentionally delaying their Normandy invasion..."

The episode effectively ties the historical significance of Victory Day to the broader narrative of 20th-century geopolitics, underscoring its enduring legacy.

Modern Reflections: Victory Day Today

Shifting to a contemporary setting, the episode touches upon the 80th anniversary of Victory Day celebrated on May 9, 2021, in Moscow's Red Square. Russian President Vladimir Putin delivers a speech that subtly reflects Russia's complex relationship with the West.

Lindsey Graham (17:56): "The alteration will send the heads of political analysts spinning headlines and decry Putin's shunning of the West..."

This modern reflection serves as a reminder of how Victory Day continues to hold significant political and cultural weight in Russia, influencing current international relations and national identity.

Conclusion: Legacy of Victory Day

Lindsey Graham aptly encapsulates the essence of Victory Day by highlighting both the valor and the tragic losses endured by the Soviet Union. The episode not only commemorates a pivotal moment in history but also examines its lasting impact on global politics and collective memory.

Lindsey Graham (21:03): "This episode is written and researched by Alexandra Curry Buckner. Executive producers are Steve Walters for Airship and Pascal Hughes for Noiser."

Through personal stories and strategic overviews, "The Soviets Celebrate Victory Day" offers a comprehensive and poignant exploration of one of history's defining victories, ensuring that the sacrifices and triumphs are not forgotten.

Credits:
Hosted, edited, and executive produced by Lindsey Graham.
Audio editing by Molly Bond.
Sound design by Misha Stanton.
Music by Lindsey Graham.
Written and researched by Alexandra Curry Buckner.
Executive producers: Steve Walters (Airship) and Pascal Hughes (Noiser).