Russia marked the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat with a massive military parade in Moscow’s Red Square on May 9. President Vladimir Putin led the celebration. Moreover, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva also attended.

Victory Day: Russia’s Biggest National Holiday

Victory Day, observed every May 9, is Russia’s most important secular holiday. It honors the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany. In fact, the Soviet Union lost around 27 million people in what it calls the Great Patriotic War. This tragic loss still deeply affects the nation’s memory. Because of this, the Kremlin uses the occasion to boost national pride and highlight Russia’s power.

Putin Praises Troops Fighting in Ukraine

While speaking at the event, Putin praised soldiers serving in Ukraine. He said, “We are proud of their courage and determination, their spiritual force that always has brought us victory.” Therefore, he connected Russia’s current military efforts with its historical achievements.

Parade Displays Military Strength

This year’s parade featured more than 11,500 troops and over 180 military vehicles. These included tanks, artillery, and armored vehicles used in Ukraine. Additionally, Yars missile launchers, which can carry nuclear warheads, rolled across Red Square. Fighter jets flew overhead in formation. Then, they released colored smoke in the national flag’s colors.

Record Attendance by World Leaders

Interestingly, this was the biggest parade since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. It also had the most global leaders present in over ten years. After the parade, Putin shook hands with Russian commanders. He also met senior North Korean officers and hugged one of them. Notably, last month he thanked North Korea for supporting Russian forces, and Pyongyang confirmed its troop involvement.

Drone Attacks Disrupt Celebrations

Meanwhile, Ukraine launched drone attacks on Moscow. As a result, flights were delayed and canceled. Russian airline Aeroflot canceled over 100 flights and delayed more than 140 others. In response, authorities tightened security. They also used signal-jamming systems, which caused mobile internet blackouts in many areas.

Putin Declares Ceasefire but Warns of Retaliation

Ahead of the celebration, Putin announced a 72-hour ceasefire starting May 7. However, he warned that Russian forces would retaliate if attacked. He also rejected a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the U.S. because it required halting Western military aid to Ukraine. Since Ukraine and its allies refused those terms, the longer truce did not happen.

Russian Attacks Continue in Ukraine

Despite the temporary ceasefire, Russian strikes continued. On May 9, Ukraine reported multiple Russian attacks. These killed at least two civilians in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia and damaged several buildings.

Europe Supports War Crimes Tribunal

At the same time, European leaders met in Lviv, Ukraine. They supported creating a special court to prosecute Russian officials for war crimes. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas posted on X, “Today, we celebrate Europe Day with Ukraine and its people,” and added, “we stand united with Ukraine for a lasting peace.”