Maia Sandu laid flowers at “Maica Îndurerată” monument on May 9: “If we don’t recognize aggressors, we risk losing peace”
The events commemorating May 9, which is observed as both Europe Day and Victory Day against Fascism in the Republic of Moldova, began early in the morning at the "Eternitate" Memorial Complex. The country's leadership first laid flowers at the "Eternal Fire" and later at the "Maica Îndurerată" monument, honoring the heroes who lost their lives for the independence of the Republic of Moldova.
President Maia Sandu emphasized the profound significance of peace in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine during a recent event, highlighting the European Union's role as a peace project for the continent.
"Today, we commemorate those who lost their lives in World War II, the individuals who fought to restore peace to our continent. Since Russia's attack on Ukraine in 2022, we have gained a deeper understanding of peace, appreciating it more and striving to preserve it," the President stated.
Maia Sandu expressed gratitude to Ukraine for its resilience in the face of Russian aggression, noting that Ukrainian courage has enabled the citizens of the Republic of Moldova to live in peace today.
“We desire peace to be restored in Ukraine and for stability to prevail throughout the continent,” she added.
The President reiterated that European integration is the most reliable guarantee for Moldova's future. "The most important and strongest peace project is the European Union, which is why we will continue to work towards realizing this vision for the Republic of Moldova,” she declared.
Igor Grosu, the Speaker of Parliament, reflected on the tragedy of war and the sacrifices made by young soldiers. “As I passed by the monuments of 16-year-old and 21-year-old soldiers, my first thought was that they were the same age as my children. I would not wish such an experience on anyone,” Grosu said.
He noted that the war in Ukraine has altered perceptions of peace and criticized the Russian Federation for its invasion of the neighboring country that began in 2022.
"Peace is a term that has taken on a special meaning, especially since 2022. We see how valuable it is and, at the same time, how fragile," Igor Grosu said.
The official recalled the enormous sacrifices of the Soviet Union during World War II but accused current Russian leadership of "not having learned its lesson."
"We witness through this invasion the barbarity displayed in its full abomination in Ukraine, which, unfortunately, has led to more sacrifices, suffering, and pain. The European Union is a space of peace, freedom, and prosperity," he emphasized.
Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu referred to the origins of World War II and the pact between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany.
"The Second World War did not begin on June 22, 1941; it actually started on September 1, 1939, when the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany were allies," the Prime Minister noted.
He mentioned that Poland was divided at that time and Bessarabia was separated from Romania, asserting that "Russia, as the successor to the Soviet Union, did not learn the lessons of history."
"We are moving towards a Europe that brings us prosperity and peace," Alexandru Munteanu concluded.
The mayor of Chișinău, Ion Ceban, delivered a message of gratitude to the victims of war from the "Eternitate" Memorial Complex, where he was joined by party members and local public administration employees. He highlighted the struggles faced by "hundreds of thousands of Moldovans and people of different nationalities" during the war. Ceban emphasized the importance of conveying a crucial lesson to younger generations: "war should never be repeated."
"Peace is the most important thing," Ceban affirmed.
Ion Ceban announced the inauguration of the Exhibition Center at the "Eternitate" Memorial Complex, which has been established in a building that had been abandoned for years.
"Exhibitions dedicated to history, memory, and the lessons we must keep alive will be held here," said the mayor. He also emphasized that the municipal authorities would continue to develop this memorial space.
