🇷🇺🇲🇹 Russian Embassy in Malta

@RusEmbMalta A series of press releases dedicated to 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War 🗓️80 Years Since the Historic Meeting on the Elbe On April 25, 1945, just fifteen days before Nazi Germany’s surrender, Soviet and American troops met on the Elbe River, sealing one of the most symbolic moments of World War II. Soldiers of the Red Army’s 1st Ukrainian Front under Marshal Ivan Konev joined forces with the US 1st Army’s 69th and 104th Infantry Divisions led by General Omar Bradley. This powerful encounter marked the imminent end of the war in Europe and gave birth to what would become known as the Spirit of the Elbe – a legacy of unity, courage, and hope for a peaceful future. 🕊️ On the 75th anniversary in 2020, Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump paid tribute in a joint statement: “The Spirit of the Elbe is an example of how our countries can put aside differences, build trust, and cooperate in pursuit of a greater cause... Their heroic feat will never be forgotten.” That day in 1945, language and cultural barriers faded as soldiers embraced, exchanged keepsakes, and celebrated together. A photo of Alexander Sylvashko and William Robertson became an icon of unity. Sylvashko would later reflect, “If that spirit had endured, the world might have been a better place.” 🕯️ Even through the Cold War, the veterans of the Elbe kept this spirit alive – a reminder of what’s possible when nations stand together against evil. In 1963, American veteran Joe Polowsky wrote to Marshal Konev: “The promise made on April 25, 1945, must be upheld.” 📌 On this 80th anniversary, we honor the memory of that handshake on the Elbe – a symbol of allied brotherhood, a shared sacrifice, and a lasting hope for peace. #Elbe80#SpiritOfTheElbe#WWII#Victory80#SharedHistory#RedArmy#NeverForget