On May 9, Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of Victory Day with an elaborate military parade in Moscow’s Red Square. President Vladimir Putin presided over the event, which showcased Russia’s military capabilities, including nuclear-capable missiles, tanks, drones, and approximately 11,000 troops.
Chinese President Xi Jinping attended as the guest of honor, reflecting the strengthening ties between Russia and China. Chinese troops marched alongside Russian forces, symbolizing deepening strategic cooperation. Other notable attendees included leaders from Brazil, Venezuela, Cuba, and Slovakia, while most Western nations were absent.
Serbia’s Aleksandar Vučić and Slovakia’s Robert Fico were the only European leaders present. Azerbaijan’s Ilham Aliyev and Laos’ Thongloun Sisoulith cancelled their trips to Russia for Victory Day at the last minute.
In his address, Putin drew parallels between the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany and Russia’s current military actions in Ukraine, framing the ongoing conflict as a continuation of the fight against fascism.
The parade occurred amid ongoing hostilities in Ukraine. Despite Russia’s announcement of a 72-hour ceasefire from May 8 to 11, Ukrainian officials reported over 700 violations, including drone strikes causing civilian casualties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the ceasefire as a “farce” and criticized the parade as a propagandistic display disconnected from historical truth.
The event underscored Russia’s efforts to project strength and resilience amid international criticism and ongoing conflict, while also highlighting the shifting dynamics of global alliances.
Header image: Mikhail Korytov/RIA Novosti/AP
