President Putin is hosting over 20 foreign leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping and Brazil’s Lula da Silva.
On Friday, Russia held its annual Victory Day parade in the heart of Moscow, marking 80 years since the fall of Nazi Germany in World War II. The event, held at Red Square, featured military hardware, ceremonial troops, and aerial displays meant to project power and national pride.
President Vladimir Putin led the commemorations, joined by a group of international allies including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Lula da Silva. Also present were leaders from nations such as Egypt, Vietnam, Venezuela, Burkina Faso and Zimbabwe — a show of diplomatic support despite Russia’s ongoing international isolation over the war in Ukraine.
Why Russia Celebrates Victory Day on 9 May
While many countries mark the end of World War II on 8 May, Russia observes it on 9 May due to time differences. When Nazi Germany’s surrender became official, it was already after midnight in Moscow. For Russians, this day is not just a holiday — it is a time to remember the immense sacrifices made during what they call the Great Patriotic War.
The Soviet Union lost an estimated 27 million people, including soldiers and civilians, making the war a defining part of national memory. Each year, Victory Day is used to honor those who died and to reinforce a shared national identity rooted in resilience and sacrifice.
Ongoing War in Ukraine Casts a Shadow
This year’s commemoration, however, is taking place under the weight of continued conflict. Despite Russia declaring a 72-hour ceasefire from 8 to 10 May, fighting has continued along the front lines. Ukrainian officials accused Russian forces of breaking the truce over 700 times in the first 12 hours alone.
In the Zaporizhzhya region, Ukraine’s Governor Ivan Fedorov reported that drone and artillery attacks struck several villages. The incidents have raised questions about the sincerity of the ceasefire and added to the already tense atmosphere.
Military Show of Strength Meets Global Scrutiny
Russia’s grand parade, with tanks, jets, and missile systems rolling through Moscow, echoed the legacy of past Soviet glory. But the context this year is very different. With the invasion of Ukraine ongoing, many view the parade as less about remembrance and more about political messaging.
Critics, including Ukrainian officials, say the Kremlin is using the occasion for propaganda rather than peace. The global spotlight on the parade has only intensified the debate over Russia’s true intentions in hosting such an elaborate event amid a devastating war.
Pride and Pain Intertwine in This Year’s Observance
As the military columns passed and fighter jets roared overhead, the significance of Victory Day remained strong for many Russians. Yet behind the patriotic displays lies a country deeply divided — between pride in its history and the reality of present-day conflict. The 80th anniversary of a hard-won victory is now tightly interwoven with a modern-day war still far from over.
