On May 9, 2025, Moscow celebrated the 80th anniversary of Victory Day with a spectacular salute that lit up the night sky. Over the course of ten minutes, more than 10,000 fireworks of various types and colors dazzled spectators, marking a significant moment in Russian history.
The festive salute was executed by military personnel from a separate Guards salute division of the Moscow military district, named after Marshal of Artillery Vladimir Mikhailkin. The fireworks were launched from 72 special towed salute installations, ranging in caliber from 105 to 310 millimeters, positioned at 16 historical sites across all administrative districts of the capital.
The event began with the grand Victory Parade, which opened with a 10-minute speech by President Vladimir Putin. Following his address, the pedestrian part of the parade commenced, showcasing military personnel and equipment. As the president departed Red Square, he was met with enthusiastic cheers of 'Russia! Russia!' from the gathered crowd.
The Victory Parade itself was a monumental occasion, attended by various global leaders, including Chinese Chairman Xi Jinping, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Brazilian President Luis Inacio Lula da Silva, and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. The presence of these dignitaries underscored the importance of the event, which was described by international media as 'grandiose.'
In St. Petersburg, the celebrations mirrored those in Moscow, with a salute beginning at 10 PM local time. The iconic Peter and Paul Fortress served as the backdrop for the event, where 30 volleys were fired, each dedicated to a specific theme. The volleys were launched with 30-second intervals, with the first and last dedicated to honoring Victory Day in the Great Patriotic War.
Residents of St. Petersburg began gathering near the Neva River two hours before the salute, eager to secure the best views from the adjacent embankments. The excitement was palpable, with crowds filling the metro stations, leading to the temporary closure of Gorkovskaya and Admiralteyskaya stations to manage the influx of spectators.
The military salute in Moscow featured artillery guns from the era of the Great Patriotic War, specifically the ZIS-3 artillery guns. This historical nod not only celebrated the past but also reinforced the significance of the day for the Russian people.
According to the Ministry of Defense of Russia, the salute was a tribute to the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War from 1941 to 1945. The event served not just as a celebration, but as a reminder of the resilience and bravery of those who fought for their country.
As the fireworks exploded in a riot of color above the capital, they symbolized more than just a display of pyrotechnics; they represented national pride and unity. The elaborate show included rare patriotic compositions that resonated deeply with the audience, evoking a sense of nostalgia and remembrance.
This year’s celebrations were particularly poignant, as they marked a significant milestone in Russian history. Many attendees reflected on the sacrifices made during the war and the importance of honoring those who served.
The atmosphere during the celebrations was one of camaraderie and shared history. Families, veterans, and young children alike gathered to witness the spectacle, reinforcing the day’s significance across generations.
Despite the celebratory mood, the event also served as a platform for political statements, with leaders using the occasion to express solidarity and shared values among nations. The presence of international leaders highlighted the geopolitical significance of the day, as Russia continues to assert its role on the global stage.
As the evening drew to a close, the salute concluded with a final, breathtaking display of fireworks, leaving the audience in awe. The echoes of the artillery and the vibrant colors against the night sky served as a fitting tribute to the 80 years since the victory in one of history's most devastating conflicts.
The celebration of Victory Day in Moscow and St. Petersburg not only honored the past but also looked to the future, as citizens came together to celebrate their shared history and national identity. The events of May 9, 2025, will undoubtedly be remembered as a significant chapter in Russia's ongoing narrative of resilience and unity.
