Russia’s annual Victory Day celebration, commemorating the end of World War II, was marked by a traditional ceremony in Red Square where President Vladimir Putin made efforts to project normalcy amidst a prolonged war. Last year, Putin had declared a “real war” for survival, but this year, he referred to the conflict in Ukraine as a “special military operation” and focused more on honoring the sacrifices of Soviet citizens in World War II. However, he did not completely ignore modern adversaries, criticizing the West for what he sees as attempts to undermine Russia.
The parade featured a slightly larger ceremony than the previous year, with more servicemen, military hardware, and foreign dignitaries in attendance. The city center was heavily secured, and the temperature in Moscow was the coldest recorded since 1945. Foreign heads of state, including the presidents of Cuba, Laos, and Guinea-Bissau, highlighted Russia’s continued influence among developing countries. Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko attended with his dog, Umka, emphasizing his close relationship with Putin.
The parade included a symbolic flyover by fighter jets, which had been canceled the previous year due to escalating attacks by Ukrainian drones. Russia has since boosted its air defenses and improved its drone capabilities, leading to a reduction in drone attacks. While the parade was still less grand than before the invasion of Ukraine, it indicated a stabilizing situation on the battlefield and a return to a predictable pattern of conflict. Putin has managed to outsource much of the fighting to volunteers, allowing most Russians to focus on the benefits of a strengthened economy.
During his address, Putin reiterated his criticisms of the West, highlighting the rise of neo-Nazism and implying Russia’s nuclear capabilities against potential threats. The parade also featured nuclear-capable missile systems, further emphasizing Russia’s military strength. Spectators at the parade expressed patriotism and support for the Russian Army, the president, and the memory of fallen ancestors. Many saw the invasion of Ukraine as a continuation of World War II, a narrative promoted by Putin to justify the violence and conflict.
Overall, the Victory Day parade reflected a nation recovering from the shock of war and settling into a new normal amidst ongoing conflicts. While Putin’s rhetoric against the West persisted, the focus of the ceremony was on honoring the past sacrifices of Soviet citizens and asserting Russia’s military strength. The parade’s slight expansion compared to the previous year signaled a sense of stability on the battlefield and a shift towards a more predictable conflict pattern in Ukraine. Despite ongoing disagreements and tensions, the parade showcased a Russia projecting strength and resilience in the face of challenges.
