The Soviet Union bore the heaviest burden and paid the highest price to defeat fascism, while the United States contributed significantly, but for them, it was all business, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters.
His comments were in response to US President Donald Trump's statement reminding people not to forget Russia's role in helping the US secure victory in World War II.
"Our country, the Soviet Union, paid the greatest price in the fight against fascism and bore the main weight of that struggle," Peskov emphasized. "The US did indeed assist and made a substantial contribution. However, there’s a nuance: for America, it was always about making money—it was business," he remarked.
Drawing a comparison to the present, Peskov added: "Today, America is profiting from aiding Ukraine, earning from selling its expensive energy resources to Europeans. Most of the funds don't even go directly to its satellites but are instead reinvested domestically into its military-industrial complex. This generates new taxes, creates jobs, and fosters technological advancements in its economy. In every instance, it’s a profitable business."
Peskov also highlighted that Russian President Vladimir Putin, after assuming office, finalized payments to the US for the Lend-Lease aid provided during World War II. "That, too, was business," Peskov concluded.
Trump had earlier written on Truth Social that the US should never forget how Russia helped them achieve victory in World War II, sacrificing almost 60 million lives in the process. He also stated that he maintains a good relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and holds affection for the Russian people.
The Soviet Union suffered the most severe losses during World War II. According to Russia’s Ministry of Defense, the USSR’s total irrevocable losses amounted to 26.6 million people, including approximately 18 million civilians and 8.7 million military personnel. Among these, one million Soviet soldiers and officers died liberating European countries.
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Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from TASS