As Russia celebrated the 79th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany, President Vladimir Putin used the occasion to assert the country’s military strength amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The annual Victory Day parade held on Moscow’s Red Square on May 9 has become a symbol of Russian military might and national pride under Putin’s leadership.
This year’s parade was marked by a conspicuous display of military hardware, including intercontinental ballistic missile systems, and a somewhat subdued number of aircraft. Putin, addressing the assembled troops and the nation, evoked the memory of the Soviet Union’s struggles during World War II and its historical victories over invaders. He said, “I want to bow to our heroes, the participants of the special military operation, to all those who are fighting for the Fatherland.” His rhetoric framed the ongoing war in Ukraine as part of a “holy struggle” against Western powers, which he accuses of rewriting the history of World War II and failing to learn from the past.
In the context of the Ukraine conflict, Putin’s speech held significant undertones. He promised victory in the war where Russian forces have advanced against Ukrainian forces, despite significant aid from the United States and its allies. His claims stand against accusations from Ukraine and the West that Russia is engaged in imperial aggression.
The Russian president also highlighted the nuclear capabilities of his country, declaring the strategic forces “always on alert.” This statement comes after Russia announced military exercises involving the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in response to what Moscow perceives as threats from France, Britain, and the United States. Putin’s message was one of resilience, stating that “Russia will do everything to prevent a global clash, but at the same time we will not allow anyone to threaten us.”
The parade and Putin’s speech reflect Russia’s continuing combative stance as its troops make territorial gains in Ukraine. The military offensive continues despite Western efforts to bolster Ukrainian resistance, and this Victory Day celebration served to reinforce Putin’s message to both domestic and international audiences about Russia’s determination to prevail.
Despite the gravity of the message and the context in which the parade occurred, the event also served to highlight Russia’s alliances, with several world leaders attending from “friendly” nations like Belarus, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Laos, and Guinea-Bissau. This show of international support contrasted with the notable absence of Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan amid tensions with Russia.
Relevant articles:
– Advancing in Ukraine, Russia to mark victory in World War Two , Investing.com, 05/09/2024
– Will not allow for global conflict, Putin says in Victory Day speech, Agencia EFE, 05/09/2024
– Putin to mark Victory Day emboldened by Ukraine gains, ttownmedia.com, 05/09/2024
– Putin says nuclear forces ‘always’ on alert in Victory Day speech, The Economic Times, 05/09/2024
– Putin Warns Of Nuclear Alert Amid Victory Day Parade In Moscow, WE News -, 05/09/2024