After almost sixty years, a statue of Joseph Stalin, the infamous Soviet leader responsible for countless atrocities, has made its debut in a Moscow metro station. The newly unveiled monument depicts Stalin looking contemplatively into the distance, surrounded by enamored workers and children offering flowers. This sculpture replicates one that was taken down in 1966 during de-Stalinization efforts. It has quickly garnered attention, seeing visitors laying flowers, taking photos with their children, and observing the figure with reflective expressions.

This installation marks a significant step in Russia’s gradual rehabilitation of Stalin's controversial legacy, particularly as the Kremlin seeks to reshape national history amidst ongoing conflict, especially in Ukraine. One visitor, Liliya A. Medvedeva, expressed her joy at Stalin's return, attributing the victory in World War II to his leadership. "Yes, there were many mistakes, but everybody makes mistakes,” she remarked, highlighting a common sentiment amongst admirers.

Nonetheless, this positive outlook on Stalin does not resonate with everyone. Critics regard this resurgence of admiration for the dictator as a troubling attempt to rewrite history, showcasing a deep ideological divide within Russian society today. Given the risks associated with dissent in the current political climate, the true extent of opposition to Stalin's glorification remains uncertain, with many potentially withholding their criticisms in public discourse.