On May 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM, Yekaterinburg came alive with a grand parade celebrating the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. The event, a significant occasion in Russian history, marked the end of World War II and was attended by notable figures including Artem Zhoga, the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Ural Federal District, and Denis Pasler, the acting Governor of the Sverdlovsk Region. Military personnel and clergy members also gathered to honor the day.
Before the parade commenced, Zhoga addressed veterans, military personnel, and residents of Yekaterinburg, donning military attire that underscored the solemnity of the occasion. He remarked, "May 9, 1945, is a day that changed world history. It marked the end of a difficult and exhausting war. Our country achieved an unconditional victory, demonstrating its strength and greatness. Hundreds of thousands of Ural residents and Siberians defended the Motherland on the front lines. We honor the memory of those who fell and will forever be grateful for our lives. Special thanks to the veterans who celebrate this great holiday with us today. Thank you for preserving our homeland. We are in your debt."
Zhoga further emphasized the ongoing struggle for national interests, stating that Russian soldiers continue to protect historical territories and fellow countrymen. He proclaimed, "Just like 80 years ago, our cause is just. Therefore, the enemy will be defeated again, and victory will surely be ours!" This sentiment resonated throughout the crowd, igniting a sense of patriotism and unity.
For the first time since 2022, modern tanks participated in the parade, showcasing military advancements. The procession was led by a T-34 tank, a historic vehicle that played a crucial role in the battles of the Kursk Bulge and the liberation of Europe. Other notable tanks included the T-72, equipped with drone protection, the T-90M 'Proryv', and the T-80BVM. Additionally, infantry fighting vehicles such as the BMP-3 and BMP-2M 'Berezhok', along with the S-300V4 anti-aircraft missile systems and several armored vehicles, were also displayed.
In total, over 2,200 military personnel participated in the parade, including 600 who had served in recent military operations. The impressive column featured 90 units of military equipment, a powerful reminder of Russia's military capabilities.
As the parade concluded, the city prepared for the 'Immortal Regiment' event, which will take place for the first time in five years. This procession is expected to draw more than 150,000 participants, honoring the memories of those who fought and died in the war.
In addition to the parade, the central part of Yekaterinburg was temporarily closed to traffic to accommodate the celebrations. The main avenue, Lenin Avenue, was pedestrianized, allowing citizens to partake in the festivities. Traffic restrictions were in place from 00:00 to 14:00 and again from 20:00 until the end of the day's events. Streets affected by the closures included Pushkin Street, Khokhryakova Street, and Marshal Zhukov Street, among others. Public transport was scheduled to resume operations by 22:00 on Lenin Avenue, ensuring that residents could return home after the celebrations.
The atmosphere in Yekaterinburg was electric, filled with a sense of pride and remembrance as citizens gathered to pay homage to the sacrifices made during the Great Patriotic War. The parade not only celebrated the past but also reaffirmed the collective spirit of the nation, echoing the resilience and strength that defined the struggle for victory 80 years ago.
As the sun set over the city, the memories of the day lingered, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the importance of honoring those who fought for freedom. The events of May 9, 2025, in Yekaterinburg served as a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of the Great Patriotic War and the unity of the Russian people.
