A Grand Commemoration in Moscow
On May 9, 2025, Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II with a grand military parade in Moscow’s Red Square. President Vladimir Putin presided over the event, which featured over 11,500 troops, tanks, military vehicles, and nuclear-capable missiles. The parade also marked the highest attendance of foreign leaders in a decade, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, reflecting Russia’s global outreach amid continued conflict in Ukraine.
A Display of Military Might
The Victory Day parade showcased Russia’s military strength, with more than 190 military vehicles traversing Red Square, ranging from the renowned WWII-era T-34 tank to the hulking eight-axle Yars mobile ICBM launchers. The event underscored Russia’s messaging of resilience and unity amid global isolation, with attendance from leaders across Asia, Latin America, and Africa, including Chinese and North Korean troops. The parade featured over 11,500 troops, including 1,500 Ukraine war veterans, along with new military technologies such as drones and Yars missiles.
Putin’s Speech and National Pride
In his speech, President Putin decried “attempts to rewrite history, to justify traitors and criminals, on whose hands lies the blood of hundreds of thousands of peaceful people.” He warned that Nazi beliefs remain strong and criticized ideologies that seek to revive such notions. The anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat, known in Russia as Victory Day, is the country’s most significant secular holiday, commemorating the Red Army’s military feats and the vast suffering of civilians. About 27 million Soviet soldiers and civilians are estimated to have died in the war.
Global Reactions and Diplomatic Tensions
The celebrations highlighted the deepening rift between Russia and the West. While Russia showcased its military strength and alliances, European Union foreign ministers gathered in Lviv, Ukraine, affirming support for Ukraine and endorsing a special international tribunal to prosecute Russian leaders for war crimes related to the 2022 invasion. The tribunal’s legal framework has been completed and is set for formal setup in May. EU leaders announced a €2 billion military aid package for Ukraine, funded in part by frozen Russian assets. Simultaneously, France and Poland signed a mutual defence treaty, reinforcing European security.
Contrasting Narratives and Ongoing Conflict
While Russia celebrated its historical victory, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the parade as a display of cynicism and reiterated calls for continued resistance and international support. The ongoing Ukraine war, Europe’s deadliest since World War II, cast a shadow over the event. While Ukraine had recently launched drone attacks on Moscow, a 72-hour ceasefire declared by Putin led to a temporary lull. However, Ukraine accused Russia of violating the truce.
A Day of Reflection and Unity
Victory Day serves as a day of reflection and unity for the Russian people, honouring the sacrifices made during World War II. The grand military parade in Moscow’s Red Square is a testament to the nation’s resilience and determination to preserve its history and honour its veterans. As Russia commemorates the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany, the event also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and complexities in international relations and the pursuit of peace.
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