On Red Square, Putin Revives Russian Patriotism Amid Ongoing Conflict

In a striking display, the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany featured military might, echoing Russia's enduring historical narrative while showcasing current wartime advancements.

On a bright but cool morning, Moscow's Red Square transformed into a stage for a grand military spectacle commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. Designed as a visual representation of Russian strength, the Victory Day parade included over 180 pieces of military equipment, featuring the latest artillery systems and armored vehicles now utilized in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. More than 11,500 Russian soldiers marched in formation, chanting "Hurrah!" as they passed by the notable Kremlin.

Adding to the eye-catching display were formations of bomber jets, which colored the sky with the tricolor of the Russian flag—red, white, and blue—over the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral. Observers, including Egypt's foreign minister, expressed admiration for the event with remarks such as, "This is very impressive — you should be proud."

For many Russians, the WWII victory remains a vital aspect of national identity. This year’s parade, the most elaborate in recent memory, was a conscious effort to evoke the historical significance that unites a country still reeling from the dissolution of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s.

Memories of modest Victory Day celebrations, such as those spent in Siberia collecting beer bottles for pocket money, reflect a childhood intertwined with the narratives of the Great Patriotic War—stories that have shaped the national consciousness and pride in overcoming the Nazis.

The parade not only reinforces a sense of nationalistic pride at home but also serves as a strategic reminder to allies and adversaries alike of Russia's military capabilities and historical resilience in the face of conflict.