On Thursday, Russia initiated its 79th annual “Victory Day” military parade, a significant event held on May 9 to honor the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany during World War II. The parade, featuring thousands of Russian troops and an array of military equipment, unfolded through Red Square in Moscow, accompanied by similar commemorations across the nation.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, serving as the commander-in-chief of Russia’s armed forces, observed the parade for the 21st time as over 9,000 individuals and 70 pieces of military hardware were showcased.
Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, speaking to Russian news agencies last week, detailed the diverse participation in the parade, including regiments, battalions, and military schools’ crews, alongside a combined military orchestra. Notably, participants of the ongoing war in Ukraine were also present. The parade concluded with a flyover by the Russian Air Force’s aerobatics teams.
Simultaneously, various cities throughout Russia conducted ceremonies and celebrations, involving an estimated 150,000 individuals and showcasing 2,500 types of weapons and military equipment.
Addressing the troops, guests, and spectators, President Putin emphasized Russia’s commitment to preventing global confrontation while asserting its readiness to defend against threats. He reiterated the constant preparedness of the country’s strategic nuclear forces.
This year’s parade coincides with Russia’s incremental advancements in eastern Ukraine, and according to military sources, further advances by Russian troops are expected in the coming months.
Putin aims to leverage the parade, emblematic of the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II, to bolster Russian patriotism amidst ongoing developments in Ukraine. He present the conflict as a fight against “Nazism” and has used the parade to laud Russian troops and veterans while showcasing Russia’s military capabilities to the world.
