TALLINN - Russia has again accused Estonia of fostering "fascism" after a group of World War II veterans 's some of whom fought in German uniforms 's held commemoration ceremonies on July 28.
In Estonia, the troops are remembered as freedom fighters who were conscripted or joined the Germans to battle for their nation's independence against the Red Army. In Russia, they are considered fascist sympathizers who defy post-Nuremberg conventions on the commemoration of Nazism.
The Russian Foreign Ministry issued a statement condemning the meeting, which saw several hundred veterans from the 20th Estonian SS Division gather to commemorate the 1944 battle of Sinimaed.
At the same time, members of the Union of Estonian Freedom Fighters 's an organization that represents veterans from all independence battles 's held a separate gathering in Toila to celebrate their 15th anniversary.
Defense Minister Jaak Aaviksoo sent a letter to the Union of Estonian Freedom Fighters praising their courage for defending their nation against invading forces. His letter was misinterpreted by Russian media as a sign of support for Nazi soldiers.
The Russian Foreign Ministry said it was alarmed at the "growing neo-fascist manifestations in Estonia."
In response, Estonian Foreign Minister Urmas Paet expressed exasperation with Russia's continual use of the term "fascism" as an insult against those who disagree with its interpretation of history, according to BNS.
Paet said Estonia had condemned the concept of fascism, and said it was too criminal an ideology to be thrown about in everyday politics.
He said Russia should instead pay attention to its own domestic concerns, such as the widening xenophobia within its own borders.
