NE NEWS SERVICE
MASCOW, FEB 27
A Russian news channel is broadcasting the names of more than 12 million Soviet soldiers killed during World War II, ahead of the 75th anniversary of the end of the war in May. The unprecedented move by the state-controlled Rossiya 24 news channel reflects the Kremlin’s efforts to use the conflict to stir national pride.
The initiative was launched on ‘Defender of the Fatherland Day’ – February 23 — and is timed to end May 8. The next day is Victory Day in Russia when tanks roll and infantry march through Red Square to mark the end of the war in Europe.
Russia is set to hold large-scale celebrations this year, 75 years after the Allied victory over the Nazis. Courtesy: AFP
