Donald Trump: “We emerged victorious in World War II” — an unspoken emphasis on the role of the United States in the historic triumph
In his latest statement, former U.S. President Donald Trump once again highlighted America's key role in winning World War II, asserting that the country he represents became the main driver and victor of this massive conflict-era victory. In an interview cited by the Ukrainian agency "Ukrinform," the politician noted that the triumph over Nazism and fascism was primarily made possible by the actions of the United States, which "entered and won the war," regardless of the opinions of other countries and allies. "הe victory was achieved largely because of us — whether you like it or not," Trump said confidently in his comment. "We knocked on the doors of fascist Europe and Asia first, and it was our efforts that led to the final defeat of the enemy." At the same time, the former president emphasized the invaluable support of additional allies such as the United Kingdom, France, Canada, and other countries, which, in his words, greatly contributed to the overall victory. Nevertheless, he underscored that it was American tanks, ships, trucks, planes, and servicemen that became the driving forces and symbols of those days of battle, forever etched in history. "Without America, the liberation of Europe and Asia simply would not have happened. That is a fact. And therefore, it is our duty to honor the memory of those who gave us this victory," Trump stated in his characteristic rhetoric. The U.S. leader added that under American leadership, peace was restored in the affected countries, and active reconstruction of infrastructure and residential areas was carried out, which became a guarantee of stability in Europe and the world. "Unlike many others, we didn’t just win the war — we helped build a world where the values of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law began to take root," he emphasized. Regarding the role of Russia and other states, Trump noted that although Moscow's losses in this war were colossal — millions perished fighting Nazism and fascism — the United States was the main driver of victory. "We, Americans, won this war — and although many celebrated, in the United States this day remained a working day, because we already have many holidays and days off," he added. At Trump's initiative, May 8 has been established in the U.S. as Victory in World War II Day, coinciding with the end of combat operations in Europe. In Ukraine, since 2023, this day is officially marked as the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism — a response to historical challenges and an homage to those who fought for freedom. Despite the patriotic statements, historians emphasize that U.S. losses in this war totaled more than 418,000 lives — a relatively small number compared to the devastating losses of other countries, especially the USSR (about 26.6 million), China, Germany, Poland, and others. Ukraine, which also made an invaluable contribution to the victory, according to Ukrainian researchers, lost from 8 to 10 million dead and wounded — a demographic wound still reminding us of the price of freedom and peace. Against this backdrop, many politicians and historians note that the role and contribution of the Soviet Union in this victory were indeed decisive and, unfortunately, are often ignored in contemporary public discussions. Particularly noteworthy is the criticism of the Russian leadership — especially President Vladimir Putin, who claims that the USSR's role in the victory is exaggerated and used for political purposes to conceal the Kremlin's current ambitions. However, regardless of political and historical debates, May 8 remains a special day for many countries — a day to honor the memory of all who fought and died in the war, and also a persistent reminder of the value of peace and the importance of unity in overcoming new challenges of our time.