History Daily The Soviets Celebrate Victory Day
May 9, 2025
On May 9, 1945, the Soviet Union's Victory Day marks a pivotal moment in World War II, celebrating the Red Army's capture of Berlin. The podcast dives into the harrowing siege of Leningrad, revealing the tragic toll of starvation on families. It also examines complex negotiations between the Soviets and Nazis, illustrating the profound consequences of failed diplomacy. Personal narratives showcase the resilience in the face of Nazi atrocities, highlighting the dramatic shift in political alliances and the evolving landscape post-war.
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Alfred Lisskov's Defection Warning
- Alfred Lisskov, a German soldier sympathetic to communism, defected to warn the Soviets of a German invasion planned for 1941.
- Despite his warning, the Soviet Union was unprepared for Hitler's surprise attack in June 1941.
Tanya Savaceva's Diary of Siege
- Tanya Savaceva's diary poignantly records her family's deaths during the brutal 1941-42 Siege of Leningrad.
- Her tragic story exemplifies the severe civilian suffering and starvation during the Siege.
Soviets' Grit at Stalingrad
- During the Battle of Stalingrad, Soviet troops endured extreme hardship but fought fiercely to hold their positions.
- Their perseverance led to encircling German forces and ultimately a decisive Soviet victory in February 1943.