The article from Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research reflects on the atrocities of war, particularly emphasizing the violence inflicted during the War of Chinese People’s Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1937-1945). It highlights the immense suffering experienced by Chinese civilians, with at least 20 million deaths and significant destruction of infrastructure, showcasing the brutal tactics of Japanese militarism, including the Nanjing Massacre and human experiments by Unit 731.
The article also addresses the staggering death tolls during World War II, with the Soviet Union losing 27 million and China 20 million. It mentions the Soviet Union’s Hunger Plan, which diverted food and resulted in millions of deaths.
As the world marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the war against fascism and militarism, the No Cold War collective issues the Santiago Appeal, advocating for peace and rejecting the cycles of violence driven by imperialism. The appeal calls for disarmament and a future where humanity thrives in harmony with nature.
Additionally, the article touches on recent diplomatic interactions between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in peacemaking despite ongoing global violence. The piece ultimately urges for greater awareness and action against militarism, invoking historical lessons to forge a path toward a peaceful future.