Russia Marks 80 Years Since Nazi Defeat

Against the backdrop of historic Red Square, Russia held a grand military parade on May 9, 2025, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

The event—one of the most significant on the Russian calendar—drew thousands of spectators, troops, and dignitaries. Soldiers in ceremonial uniform marched in perfect formation as columns of tanks and missile launchers rolled past the Kremlin walls. Military aircraft roared overhead in a show of national pride.

The day, celebrated annually as Victory Day, honors the Soviet Union‘s critical role in the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945. It has become not just a military tradition, but a deeply emotional day for many Russians, as families recall those who never came home from the war.

President Vladimir Putin addressed the nation during the ceremony, emphasizing unity and the importance of historical memory. “Our fathers and grandfathers fought not just for the homeland, but for all humanity,” he said. “Their courage lives on in every generation.”

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This year’s parade had added weight. The war in Ukraine has altered Russia’s international relationships and added layers of complexity to national commemorations. In a gesture interpreted by some as a call for diplomacy, Putin declared a 72-hour unilateral ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict, citing the anniversary as a moment for reflection and restraint. However, reports on the ground suggested the truce may not have been fully observed.

Another emotional highlight of the day was the “Immortal Regiment” march—an annual tradition where citizens carry portraits of relatives who served during World War II. What began as a grassroots movement in 2012 has grown into a global phenomenon, with marches taking place in China, South America, and across Africa, reflecting the universal resonance of the war’s legacy.

Security across the capital was tight, with law enforcement deployed in large numbers. Authorities noted that despite the ongoing conflict and political tensions, Victory Day serves as a unifying moment for the nation—where history, memory, and patriotism converge.