Russia Marks 80th Anniversary of Victory Over Nazi Germany with Grand Military Parade
On May 9, Russia celebrated the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany with a grand military parade on Red Square in Moscow, showcasing its military strength amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. The event was attended by several foreign leaders, including Presidents Xi Jinping of China and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, as well as Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vučić. This gathering underlined the Kremlin’s efforts to project international influence and defy Western isolation.
The parade was a display of Russia’s military might, with over 11,500 troops and 180 military vehicles, including tanks and nuclear-capable missile launchers, taking part in the display. The air show featured fighter jets trailing smoke in the colors of the Russian flag, a symbol of national pride. President Vladimir Putin praised Russian troops fighting in Ukraine, calling them defenders against Nazism, Russophobia, and antisemitism. In his speech, Putin emphasized national unity and pride in Russia’s "special military operation," stating, "Russia has been and will be an impassable barrier for Nazism… The truth and fairness are on our side."
The celebrations were held under tight security due to recent Ukrainian drone attacks and airport disruptions in Moscow. Internet outages were also reported, likely due to electronic countermeasures. Despite these challenges, the event served as a platform for Putin to solidify domestic support and promote new global alliances amid an increasingly divided international landscape. The attendance of foreign leaders, particularly Serbia’s President Vučić, whose visit marked his first trip to Russia since the invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, highlights the complex web of international relations at play.
As Russia continues to navigate its role on the global stage, the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany serves as a reminder of the country’s rich history and its ongoing efforts to assert its influence. With the world watching, Russia’s actions will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for international relations and global security. As we reflect on this significant event, it is clear that the international community will be closely monitoring Russia’s next moves, seeking to understand the implications of its actions and the potential consequences for the global landscape.