Russia’s Victory Day celebration commemorating the end of World War II included traditional military displays and speeches by President Vladimir Putin. While last year’s celebration focused on Russia’s struggle on the battlefield, this year Putin emphasized the sacrifices of Soviet citizens in WWII over bashing modern adversaries. However, he did not completely ignore criticism of the West, accusing them of hypocrisy and lies for attempting to undermine Russia.
The ceremony featured an expanded parade compared to last year, with more servicemen and military hardware on display. Foreign dignitaries, including the presidents of Cuba, Laos, and Guinea-Bissau, attended, highlighting Russia’s continued influence among developing countries, despite Western attempts to isolate Putin diplomatically. The parade also included a flyover by fighter jets, symbolizing Russia’s military capabilities and a sign that the worst upheaval of the war in Ukraine was over.
Russia has stabilized its economy, expanded military production, and recruited new soldiers, allowing them to regain the initiative on the battlefield in Ukraine. Putin has outsourced the fighting to volunteers, enabling most Russians to tune out the war and benefit from an economy boosted by military spending. During his address, Putin criticized the rise of neo-Nazism in the West and alluded to Russia’s nuclear capabilities against the West, emphasizing Russia’s commitment to avoiding global conflict while maintaining combat readiness.
The Victory Day parade attracted a patriotic audience supporting the Russian Army, Putin, and the memory of fallen ancestors. Many spectators viewed the invasion of Ukraine as a continuation of the same war, echoing Putin’s narrative to justify the violence. Overall, the parade demonstrated Russia’s military strength and the resilience of its population, showcasing a nation that has recovered from the initial shock of war and now holds the advantage on the battlefield in Ukraine.
Despite Mr. Putin’s broad efforts to project normalcy, the event highlighted ongoing tensions between Russia and the Western world. Reviving criticisms and grievances about Western policies, Putin accused the Western elites of attempting to spark regional conflicts and undermine Russia. The ceremony, while emphasizing the sacrifices of the past, also underscored Russia’s military capabilities and readiness to defend against any threats. The traditional Victory Day celebration served as a display of national unity and pride, honoring the memory of those who fought in WWII and reflecting Russia’s current geopolitical challenges.
