As Russia marked its 79th Victory Day celebration, the tone was more subdued than in previous years, with President Vladimir Putin using the occasion to assert his country’s readiness to face external threats while navigating through a “difficult period” amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The annual May 9 festivities, commemorating the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, have traditionally been a platform for Putin to rally national support and exhibit military prowess. However, this year’s observance comes as Moscow’s forces report advances on the frontlines in Ukraine, reflecting both a literal and metaphorical battle for the nation’s future.
Putin, addressing crowds in Moscow’s Red Square, underscored the country’s military determination: “Russia will do everything in order to not let a global confrontation begin,” adding that “our strategic forces are always ready.” Despite the assertive messaging, the presence of military gear and the number of troops at the parade were notably fewer than the year prior, perhaps reflecting the strain of the prolonged conflict on Russia’s resources.
The pared-back procession involved about 9,000 people and 70 pieces of military equipment, compared to the larger scale of past parades.
Security concerns, fuelled by recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory, prompted tighter measures in Moscow and the cancellation of parades in some western Russian regions. Despite these concerns, leaders from several former Soviet republics and allied countries attended the event, notably from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Cuba, Laos, and Guinea-Bissau. “Unfriendly countries” were absent, reflective of Russia’s deepened isolation from much of the international community since its invasion of Ukraine.
The Victory Day celebrations come amid reports of incremental Russian territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, with expectations of a larger-scale offensive looming. Ukraine’s military claims suggest that Russian forces aimed to capture strategic locations by May 9, a symbolic deadline underscoring the intertwined nature of historical pride and current military objectives.
The ongoing war has also reshaped Russia’s relationships with Western countries. Sanctions have mounted, and international alliances have become more polarized, with NATO countries opposing Russia and its new partners. Moscow’s narrative depicts the West as seeking to inflict a “strategic defeat,” while Ukraine and its allies maintain they are resisting unprovoked aggression.
Relevant articles:
– Advancing in Ukraine, Russia marks victory in World War Two , Reuters, 05/09/2024
– Russia marks Victory Day parade amid Ukraine war, Al Jazeera English, 05/09/2024
– Amid pomp and propaganda, Russia holds Victory Day military parade as war rumbles on, CNBC, 05/09/2024
– Watch live: Putin’s Victory Day concludes with fireworks in Moscow amid Ukraine war, The Independent, 05/09/2024