On May 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM Moscow time (2:00 PM Vietnam time), the grand parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory Day commenced in Red Square, Russia. This year’s event was particularly significant, marking a major milestone in the observance of the end of World War II and the Soviet Union's triumph over Nazi Germany.
According to the TASS news agency, the parade began with the iconic chimes of the Spasskaya Tower, setting a solemn tone for the proceedings. In a display of national pride, the flags of the Russian Federation and the Soviet Union were brought into Red Square, accompanied by a performance of "The Holy War" by the military orchestra.
This year’s parade was meticulously organized, with over 10,000 participants, including military units and cadets from 13 different countries. Notably, 27 heads of state and government leaders confirmed their attendance, among them China’s General Secretary and President Xi Jinping, Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro, Cuba’s President Miguel Diaz-Canel, and Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic. Vietnam was represented by General Secretary To Lam, who led a high-level delegation as part of his official visit to Russia from May 8-11, 2025.
In a historic first, the Vietnam People’s Army sent a delegation of 86 soldiers and leaders to participate in the event. The presence of the Red Flag with a gold star of Vietnam alongside the flags of other participating nations such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, and China evoked a strong sense of solidarity among the Vietnamese community in Russia and back home.
The parade was presided over by Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and commanded by Oleg Salyukov, the Commander of the Ground Forces of the Russian Armed Forces. It was structured to last approximately two hours, featuring a solemn formation of military units, a welcoming speech from Russian President Vladimir Putin, and a showcase of various military equipment.
As part of the parade, the audience witnessed over 130 units of military hardware. The procession was led by the legendary T-34 tank, followed by modern T-90M and upgraded T-80BVM tanks, Typhoon-K armored vehicles, Yars strategic missiles, Iskander tactical missiles, and advanced air defense systems. The display emphasized Russia's military capabilities, with particular attention on the latest technological advancements, including the hypersonic missile Oreshnik, which was showcased as a pinnacle of Russian innovation.
The event was not only a display of military might but also a celebration of youth and patriotism, featuring young military cadets and members of the "Yunarmya" youth patriotic movement. This initiative aims to instill a sense of historical memory and national pride among the younger generation, an effort that has gained increasing importance in recent years.
Weather permitting, the parade was expected to conclude with an impressive aerial display, painting the sky in the three colors of the Russian flag. The live broadcast of the parade was projected to reach approximately 6 million viewers, with over 41 million views expected when including replays across various Russian provinces and cities.
Throughout the day, the atmosphere in Red Square was charged with emotion as veterans from around the world, including representatives from the United States, gathered to commemorate the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War. The event served as a poignant reminder of the historical significance of Victory Day, fostering a spirit of remembrance and reflection on the past.
As the parade unfolded, the international presence underscored the importance of the event on the global stage, highlighting Russia's role in commemorating a pivotal moment in history. The participation of numerous foreign dignitaries not only celebrated the past but also aimed to strengthen diplomatic ties and foster a sense of unity among nations.
This year, the Victory Parade was more than just a military display; it represented a cultural and historical reaffirmation of national identity and pride. The meticulous preparations and the grandeur of the event reflected Russia's commitment to honoring its history while looking forward to the future.
As the day came to a close, the echoes of the past resonated through the streets of Moscow, reminding all present of the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom and peace. The 80th Anniversary of Victory Day was a resounding success, leaving an indelible mark on all who attended and watched from afar.
