On May 9, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin presided over a grand military parade on Red Square in Moscow, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. This year's event was particularly significant, as it unfolded against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where Russia has been engaged in a military offensive since 2022.
According to the Kremlin, leaders from approximately 20 countries attended the commemorations, including notable figures such as Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Their presence was seen as a show of solidarity with Russia amid Western attempts to isolate the country due to its actions in Ukraine.
The parade began at 10:00 AM Moscow time, marked by the sounds of military bands and the sight of thousands of soldiers marching in formation. About 11,000 troops participated in the event, which included 1,500 soldiers who had fought in Ukraine. This year, the parade also showcased advanced military equipment, including drones like the Geran 2 and Garpia A1, underscoring Russia's military capabilities.
Putin's speech during the event was a poignant reminder of the historical significance of May 9. He declared, "Today, we bow before the generation that defeated Nazism," emphasizing the importance of remembrance in Russian culture. He also framed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a continuation of the fight against Nazism, stating that "the whole of Russia supports the offensive in Ukraine" and that the nation would continue to stand against what he termed "Russophobia and Nazism."
In a notable move, Putin had ordered a ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10, coinciding with the celebrations. However, Ukraine accused Russia of violating this truce, claiming that hundreds of attacks had occurred across the front lines during this period. Local authorities in the Kherson and Dnipropetrovsk regions reported injuries from Russian drone strikes, casting doubt on the sincerity of the ceasefire.
The parade was not without controversy. The presence of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, the only leader from the European Union to attend, drew criticism from various quarters, including French officials who expressed disapproval of his participation. Benjamin Haddad, the French Minister for Europe, stated, "It is not appropriate for a European leader to be in Moscow today," highlighting the ongoing tensions between Russia and the EU.
In addition to the military display, the event featured a moment of silence in memory of those who died in the fight against Nazism. The atmosphere was heavy with national pride as the Russian public displayed banners and flags commemorating the victory of 1945, a date that holds immense significance in Russian history. The day is celebrated with great fervor across the country and in former Soviet republics, marking a moment of reflection on the sacrifices made during the war.
As the parade progressed, foreign contingents from 13 countries, including China, Vietnam, and Belarus, marched alongside Russian troops. This display was intended to symbolize Russia's alliances and its position on the global stage, despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Despite the celebratory nature of the event, the context was stark. The war in Ukraine remains a contentious issue, with both sides accusing each other of failing to uphold the ceasefire. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the parade as a "parade of lies," asserting that it served to mask the realities of the conflict.
In the lead-up to the event, Russian authorities implemented strict security measures, including restrictions on internet access and a ban on flying drones over Moscow. These actions were taken to ensure the safety of the celebrations amid fears of potential attacks from Ukraine.
Putin's rhetoric during the parade echoed themes he has used throughout the conflict, portraying Russia as a defender against modern-day Nazism. This narrative has been a cornerstone of his justification for the military actions in Ukraine, despite widespread international condemnation.
As the parade concluded with an aerial display, Putin's message was clear: he seeks to portray strength and unity in the face of adversity. The event served not only as a commemoration of past victories but also as a platform for Putin to reinforce his narrative surrounding the current conflict.
In summary, the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany was marked by a display of military might and political solidarity in Moscow. While the world watches the unfolding situation in Ukraine, the parade served as a reminder of the complexities of history and the ongoing struggles faced by nations in the present day.
