As of May 2025, the city of Volgograd, known historically as Stalingrad, is undergoing a significant transformation that pays homage to its storied past. In a move that has been met with both celebration and controversy, the international airport in Volgograd has officially been renamed Stalingrad International Airport. This change comes on the heels of a request from veteran organizations and the Union of Soviet Officers, who urged President Vladimir Putin to restore the city’s historical name.
On May 1, 2025, coinciding with International Workers' Solidarity Day, Putin approved the proposal to consider renaming Volgograd to Stalingrad. This decision reflects a growing sentiment among some factions in Russia who wish to honor the legacy of the city, which played a pivotal role during World War II. The airport's new name is not just a symbolic gesture; it signifies a broader desire to reconnect with a historical identity that many feel has been overshadowed in recent decades.
Governor Andrei Bocharov was instrumental in this decision, having conveyed the wishes of local veterans to the President. Within hours of the request being made, a formal decree was signed by Putin, solidifying the airport's new identity. The letters of the new name are designed in a striking turquoise color, aligning with the aesthetic of the entire air terminal complex.
In recent weeks, signs throughout Volgograd have been temporarily changed from "Volgograd" to "Stalingrad" for holiday celebrations, a tradition that has sparked discussions about the city's identity. These signs, however, are set to remain permanently, a testament to the city's commitment to embracing its historical roots.
Moreover, the opening of the memorial complex titled "Armored Train of the NKVD Troops" in Stalingrad further emphasizes the city’s historical significance. The NKVD, or the Soviet secret police, played a crucial role during the war, and this memorial serves to honor their contributions. Festive events are currently taking place in Stalingrad, celebrating the anniversary of the Red Army's counteroffensive that marked a turning point in the war.
The renaming of the airport and the city’s embrace of its historical identity have sparked mixed reactions. Supporters argue that restoring the name Stalingrad honors the sacrifices made during one of history's bloodiest battles and fosters a sense of pride among residents. They believe that the name carries weight and significance, as the city entered world history under this title.
However, critics caution against romanticizing a name associated with a regime that was responsible for widespread repression and suffering. They argue that while history should be acknowledged, it should not be glorified. The debate over the renaming reflects broader tensions within Russian society regarding how to interpret and honor the past.
In the air traffic control communications, the name Stalingrad has re-entered the lexicon, as dispatchers and flight crews now refer to the airport by its historical name. This change is emblematic of a larger cultural shift that some see as a revival of Soviet-era nostalgia, while others view it as a dangerous regression.
As the city of Stalingrad celebrates its past, it also faces the complexities of its present. The move to rename the airport is part of a larger narrative about national identity, memory, and the way history is remembered in contemporary Russia. The ongoing discussions surrounding this issue reveal the deep divisions within Russian society about how to reconcile the past with the present.
As events unfold, it remains to be seen how the renaming will impact the local population and the broader Russian discourse surrounding history and identity. For now, residents and visitors alike will find themselves arriving at Stalingrad International Airport, a name that resonates with historical significance and evokes a powerful legacy.
