As the world gears up to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the city of Moscow is preparing for a grand celebration on May 9, 2025. This year, the event promises to be particularly significant, with over 20 countries confirming their participation in the parade on Red Square, showcasing a united front in honoring the sacrifices made during the war.
The festivities will kick off early in the day, with the main parade scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM. Attendees can expect a solemn procession featuring soldiers from the Perm garrison, complete with military equipment that will march through the iconic square. Tribunes will be set up directly on the square, and access will be regulated through metal detectors to ensure safety, with five entry points available for the public.
In addition to the military parade, a concert will take place at 11:00 AM in front of the Theater-Theater, featuring performances by local Permian groups. Notably, the choir "Molada" will perform, a group that gained recognition for its participation in the popular show "Nu-ka, all together! Choir!". The concert will also include a performance by the Perm Governorate Orchestra, with soloist Vladimir Tselebrovsky from the Mariinsky Theater taking the stage.
The day will culminate in a spectacular fireworks display scheduled for 11:00 PM, set to light up the night sky from the right bank of the Kama River. This celebratory finale is expected to draw large crowds, with many eager to witness the colorful display.
Meanwhile, in Moscow, preparations for the parade are underway, with various world leaders confirming their attendance. Among them is the Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, who is the only EU leader confirmed to attend. Fico, who has expressed his commitment to the event since last fall, stated that he would not miss the opportunity to honor the occasion.
Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic will also be present, albeit without a government delegation to avoid potential sanctions. He has pledged to attend the parade, emphasizing the importance of representing Serbia at such a significant event. Vucic has also indicated that he will discuss energy cooperation with President Vladimir Putin during his visit.
China's President Xi Jinping is another high-profile leader expected to attend, as confirmed by the Russian ambassador in Beijing. This visit underscores the strong ties between Russia and China, particularly in the context of military cooperation.
Other notable attendees include the President of Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, and Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who plans to discuss opportunities for peaceful resolution regarding Ukraine with Putin. The participation of military contingents from countries like Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Vietnam further highlights the international dimension of this year's celebrations.
Azerbaijan will send 80 military personnel to participate in the parade, while Kazakhstan's 37th Airborne Assault Brigade will also be present. Vietnam has confirmed the participation of a delegation of 80 individuals, including 73 military personnel who have been training rigorously for the event.
In addition to these countries, leaders from Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, and Burkina Faso have also confirmed their attendance, reflecting a diverse representation at the event. The final guest list is still being finalized, but the Kremlin has indicated that at least 20 countries will be represented.
However, the potential absence of the United States has been a topic of speculation. While there were discussions about former President Donald Trump possibly attending, recent statements from both the U.S. and Russian administrations have clarified that no such visit is planned. This has left many wondering about the implications for U.S.-Russia relations amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
As the date approaches, the atmosphere in both Perm and Moscow is charged with anticipation. The celebrations are not only a tribute to the past but also a demonstration of solidarity among nations. With military displays, cultural performances, and fireworks, the events are set to be a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the importance of remembering history.
In Perm, local authorities are encouraging residents to arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing the parade and concert, emphasizing the significance of community participation in these commemorative events. As the city gears up for the festivities, the spirit of remembrance and unity is palpable.
Overall, the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War is shaping up to be a landmark event, not just for Russia but for the international community as well. The convergence of leaders from various nations in Moscow signals a commitment to remembering the past while navigating the complexities of modern geopolitics.
