Victory Day over Nazism in Ukraine commemorates the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. However, in recent years, Ukraine has redefined how it marks this event, especially in the context of its national identity, political realignment, and current conflict with Russia.

When is Victory Day over Nazism?

Victory Day over Nazism is observed on May 8 each year.

The following is the list of Victory Day over Nazism from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Victory Day over Nazism?

Victory Day was originally part of the Soviet Union's commemoration of the Allied victory in WWII. It marked the surrender of Nazi Germany in 1945, and honored the immense human sacrifice, particularly on the Eastern Front, where Ukraine suffered enormous casualties and destruction.

Since 2015, following the Russian annexation of Crimea and rising tensions with Russia, Ukraine began distancing itself from Soviet-style observances.

May 8 was introduced as the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation, aligning with the European tradition of reflecting on the human cost of WWII.

In 2023, Ukraine officially designated May 8 as Victory Day over Nazism, and declared May 9 as a regular working day, symbolizing a break from the Russian-centric Soviet legacy.

Victory Day in Ukraine now emphasizes remembrance of all victims of WWII, both military and civilian, condemnation of totalitarianism, including both Nazism and Stalinism, Ukraine's place in the European and global coalition against fascism, and a move toward a European historical narrative, distancing from Soviet symbolism.