On May 9, 2025, Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany, with its largest military parade since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine.
The parade, held in Moscow’s Red Square, involved over 11,000 troops, advanced military equipment, and a notable international presence. The event served as a display of strength and a signal of international support for President Vladimir Putin, despite ongoing hostilities.
The Kremlin reported that 29 foreign leaders attended the parade, an increase compared to previous years. Among the attendees were Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, highlighting Russia’s strategic partnerships beyond traditional Western alliances. Leaders from Belarus, Serbia, and Vietnam were also present, reflecting diverse international backing.
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The parade showcased Russia’s military capabilities, including modern tanks, missile systems, and aerial displays. Chinese troops marched alongside Russian forces, symbolizing growing military cooperation between the two countries. President Putin drew parallels between World War II and the current conflict in Ukraine, portraying Russia’s actions as a continuation of its historical struggle against fascism.
The event took place under heightened security following Ukrainian drone strikes on Moscow. Russia announced a unilateral ceasefire from May 8 to May 11, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed it as a “theatrical performance,” emphasizing that Ukraine was not consulted and would not abide by it.
