On May 9, Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II with grand military parades, ceremonies, and international diplomatic engagements, even as fighting continued along its borders. The Victory Day celebration, deeply symbolic in Russian national memory, was highlighted by a massive parade in Moscow’s Red Square, attended by President Vladimir Putin and 29 foreign leaders from across the globe.

The festivities commenced at 10 am local time, featuring thousands of troops and dozens of military vehicles marching across Red Square under the watchful eyes of both Russian citizens and the international community. The parade not only paid tribute to the valor and sacrifices of the Soviet people during what Russians call the Great Patriotic War but also served as a powerful statement of Russia’s resilience and military prowess amid current geopolitical tensions.

Complementing the formal military displays was the widespread participation in the “Immortal Regiment” marches, a civilian tradition where participants carry portraits of relatives who fought against Nazi forces. While the main march traditionally coincides with Russia’s Victory Day, dozens of such events had already taken place worldwide-including in China, Africa, and Latin America-in the week leading up to May 9. The global nature of these commemorations highlighted the enduring international recognition of the Soviet Union’s monumental role in defeating Nazi Germany.

Following the parade, President Putin engaged in a series of bilateral meetings with visiting leaders, focusing on pressing issues such as the Ukraine conflict, energy cooperation, regional security, and expanding........

© Blitz