On a brisk day with light snowfall in Moscow, President Vladimir Putin stood in the historic Red Square to commemorate the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. As thousands of troops stood in formation and a display of military might paraded through the square, Putin delivered a speech that both celebrated the past and sent a stark message about the present.
Putin began by honoring the heroes of the Soviet army and accused Western elites of arrogance, implying they had forgotten the Soviet Union’s crucial role in defeating Nazi Germany. He then transitioned to a more ominous tone, declaring that “Russia will do everything to prevent global confrontation, but we will not allow anyone to threaten us.”
As advanced missile systems and air defense units rolled across the cobblestones of Red Square, Putin’s message to the West was unmistakable. He portrayed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a continuation of a historic struggle, framing it within the narrative of Russia’s eternal battle against Western encroachment.
The attendance at the Victory Day event revealed much about Russia’s current standing in the international community. State media reported the presence of some world leaders, mainly from former Soviet states and a few other nations considered friendly to Moscow.
Putin’s rhetoric was consistent with his long-standing approach to Russian politics and international relations. Since rising to power in the late 1990s, Putin has utilized Victory Day to bolster national pride.
Relevant articles:
– Putin hails army ‘heroes’ and warns off West in WW2 parade, BBC, 05/09/2024
– Russia celebrates victory in World War II as Putin accuses the West of fueling global conflicts, The Associated Press, 05/09/2024
– Emboldened Russia marks Victory Day with parade of nuclear-capable weapons, The Washington Post, 05/09/2024
– Russia Victory Day parade: Won’t allow any threats — Putin – DW – 05, DW (English), 05/09/2024