Volgograd System Will Return to Historic Name of “Stalingrad”

Volgograd, one of the most heavily industrialized planetary systems in the USSR, will have its historic name restored following a decree from the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet. It will again honor Joseph Stalin, who led the nation during the First Scinfaxi War.

Reactions in the Comintern were positive, though several states across the Orion Arm condemned the decision—led by the Intermarium Commonwealth and the Solidarité of Chari-Makasa, who in a joint statement accused the Soviet government of “a deliberate glorification of genocide.”

Our Analysis: Stalin’s wartime leadership has cemented his status as a revered figure in the USSR and a popular icon across the Orion Arm. Foreign analysts, however, continue to criticize Soviet historians for heavily whitewashing atrocities committed by his regime.

It’s a strange reversal from a Soviet government led largely by reformists, who have long worked to confront the darker chapters of their history. Reviving “Stalingrad” is likely an attempt to appease hardliner factions said to be increasingly dissatisfied with their leadership.