Russia celebrates 80 years since defeating Nazi Germany amid ongoing conflict

On May 9, 2025, Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany in World War II with a grand military parade held in Moscow’s Red Square. The event was attended by significant global leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, demonstrating Russia's efforts to strengthen ties with allies amid ongoing tensions with the West. This year, amid the backdrop of Russia's prolonged conflict with Ukraine, the celebration took a toned-down approach compared to previous years, reflecting the national and international complexities surrounding the event. Historically, Victory Day, celebrated annually on May 9, serves as a reminder of the Soviet Union’s enormous sacrifices during the war, which resulted in an estimated 27 million deaths. The Russian government has increasingly utilized this day for propaganda purposes, framing current military engagements as continuations of those historical sacrifices. In particular, as the conflict in Ukraine persists, the day exemplifies the Kremlin’s attempt to bolster national pride while projecting strength on the global stage. However, this year's celebrations were marred by disruption from Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow, prompting heightened security measures by Russian officials in preparation for the parade. In the lead-up, there were significant cancellations and delays of flights to and from the capital, underscoring the tension and fragility of the situation. Attendees of the parade, including dignitaries and military representatives from allied nations, experienced logistical challenges caused by the conflict and the wider geopolitical dynamics at play. In his speech during the parade, President Vladimir Putin praised the courage of Russian troops engaged in the ongoing war, suggesting a need for unity and resolve among the population as the country faces external pressures. The day also featured a display of military equipment and personnel, with over 11,500 troops participating alongside advanced military vehicles, emphasizing Russia’s military readiness. While the Kremlin had declared a unilateral ceasefire for the celebrations, reports indicated that Russian military actions continued, contributing to a narrative of skepticism regarding the sincerity of such peace overtures.