The USSR And The World Press: Support During The War – Viktor Mikhin

Global Economy Geopolitics Sovereign Info Network

World War II was one of the most tragic yet heroic periods in the history of humanity, as well as in the history of our country.

The Soviet Union, which bore the brunt of Nazi Germany’s aggression, not only withstood the onslaught but also made a decisive contribution to the victory over fascism. The global press at the time actively covered events on the Soviet-German front, expressing support and admiration for the courage of the Red Army and the Soviet people.

The Great Patriotic War: A Symbol of Resistance and Hope

From the very beginning of the war, the USSR became a symbol of resistance for many nations around the world. The global press emphasized that the Soviet Union’s struggle was not merely a war for territory but a battle for freedom and human dignity. Newspapers and magazines in various countries published materials describing the Red Army as the primary force capable of halting the Nazi war machine.

The Red Army did not just liberate Europe; it saved the world from fascism. This is a feat that will never be forgotten

For example, the American newspaper The New York Times wrote in July 1941, just a month after the start of Operation Barbarossa: “The resistance of Soviet troops is striking in its tenacity. They are fighting not only for their land but also for the future of the entire world.” Such sentiments were characteristic of many Western publications, which saw the USSR as the last bastion against fascism.

It is true that at the beginning of the war, many in the United States were skeptical of the USSR’s ability to withstand Germany. However, by 1942, after the Red Army’s initial successes, the tone of the American press shifted. Newspapers and magazines began actively supporting the Soviet Union, calling it the “shield of democracy.” In 1942, the American magazine Time named Stalin “Man of the Year,” and in an article explaining this decision, it wrote: “The Soviet Union has proven that it can not only endure but also prevail. The Red Army has become a symbol of hope for the entire world.” This was an unprecedented acknowledgment of the USSR’s contributions by a Western publication.

Asia and Africa: Solidarity with the Soviet People

In Asian countries, many of which were under colonial rule or fighting for independence, the USSR’s struggle against fascism evoked particular sympathy and support. China, which had been fighting Japanese aggression since 1937, saw the Soviet Union as an ally in the fight against militarism.

The Chinese newspaper Jiefang Ribao (Liberation Daily) published an article in 1942 stating: “The heroism of Soviet soldiers in Stalingrad inspires us in our struggle against the Japanese invaders. We believe that the victory of the USSR will be a victory for all oppressed peoples.” This was especially significant, as China and the USSR were united in their fight against aggressors.

In India, which was fighting for independence from the British Empire, leaders of the national liberation movement, such as Jawaharlal Nehru, also expressed support for the USSR. The Indian newspaper The Hindu wrote: “The Soviet Union demonstrates that even under the most difficult conditions, it is possible to fight for freedom and justice.”

In Africa, where many countries were under colonial rule, news of the USSR’s struggle against fascism also resonated. Although the African press was less developed than in other regions, voices of solidarity with the Soviet people were heard through leaders of national liberation movements.

For example, in South Africa, the newspaper The Bantu World, which represented the interests of the indigenous population, published an article in 1943 about the Red Army’s victory at Stalingrad. The article emphasized: “The Battle of Stalingrad is not just a victory for the USSR; it is a victory for all who fight against oppression and injustice.” This was particularly important for African people, who saw the USSR as an example of the struggle for their rights.

In Latin America, where U.S. influence was significant, the press also expressed support for the USSR. The Mexican newspaper El Universal wrote in 1943: “The Soviet Union is fighting not only for itself but for all of humanity. Its victory will be a victory for justice.”

The Liberation of Europe: The World Press on the Red Army’s Feat

When the Red Army began liberating European countries from Nazi occupation, the global press was filled with admiration. The liberation of Warsaw, Budapest, Prague, and finally Berlin became the subject of thousands of articles and reports.

The British newspaper The Guardian wrote in 1945: “The Red Army did not just liberate Europe; it saved the world from fascism. This is a feat that will never be forgotten.” Similar sentiments were expressed by the press in many countries, which saw the USSR as a liberator.

Post-War Recognition and the Cold War Shift

After the war, the global press continued to admire the USSR’s achievements. However, with the onset of the Cold War, the tone of many publications changed. Nevertheless, in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, the USSR remained a symbol of the struggle for freedom and justice.

For example, the Vietnamese newspaper Nhân Dân wrote in the 1950s: “The USSR’s experience in the fight against fascism inspires us in our struggle for the independence of our country.” This demonstrates that the support for the USSR during the war left a deep impression on the consciousness of peoples worldwide.

The USSR’s struggle against fascism became not only a military but also a moral feat, earning widespread recognition in the global press. From America to Asia, from Africa to Europe, newspapers and magazines praised the courage of the Red Army and the Soviet people. This support became an important factor that helped the USSR endure the most difficult moments of the war and ultimately achieve the Great Victory.

Viktor Mikhin, Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences, Expert on Middle Eastern Countries