**
In a notable shift from previous years, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a speech on Victory Day that sought to legitimise the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, while also sharply criticising NATO. The event, held in Moscow’s Red Square, was markedly scaled back, reflecting heightened security concerns and the realities of military commitments.
A Justification for War
Standing before military personnel, Putin framed the conflict in Ukraine as a “just” war, asserting that his nation is combating an “aggressive force” bolstered by NATO support. His comments come during what is traditionally one of Russia’s most significant national holidays, marking the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany. However, celebrations were subdued this year, with reports of a three-day ceasefire agreed upon by both Russia and Ukraine, though tensions remained high.
In his address, Putin paid tribute to the sacrifices of Soviet soldiers during World War Two, linking their heroism to the current military operations. “The great feat of the generation of victors inspires the soldiers carrying out the goals of the special military operation today,” he stated, referring to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine which has persisted for over four years. The Russian president’s rhetoric positioned his military as valiant defenders against a foreign-backed adversary.
Changes to the Parade
This year’s Victory Day parade was stripped of its usual display of armoured vehicles and ballistic missiles, a significant departure from past events where military might was showcased prominently. Instead, soldiers marched in formation across Red Square, while military jets performed a flyover, leaving trails of the Russian flag in the sky. The decision to limit the display was attributed to security concerns, with officials citing the need to prioritise military assets for active deployment rather than public parades.
Putin’s speech was followed by ceremonial cannon fire and music from a military brass band. The event drew a limited number of foreign dignitaries, including leaders from Belarus, Malaysia, and Uzbekistan, as well as Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico, the only EU representative present. In contrast to last year’s 80th anniversary celebrations, which saw attendance from numerous world leaders, this year’s gathering was noticeably less attended, reflecting the geopolitical isolation Russia faces as a result of its actions in Ukraine.
Broader Celebrations and Security Measures
While the Red Square parade was subdued, Victory Day events took place in various regions across Russia, albeit with fewer participants than in previous years. In Vladivostok, for instance, local celebrations included a parade and the traditional Immortal Regiment march, which honours war veterans. However, other cities either scaled back their events or moved to virtual formats due to anticipated internet disruptions.
This year’s muted celebrations highlighted the tension within Russia as it grapples with the ongoing conflict. Security measures were intensified, particularly in light of potential threats from Ukrainian drones, which contributed to the decision to limit the parade’s scale. Observers noted that the festivities have increasingly been used as a political tool to bolster national pride and military resolve in the face of international condemnation.
Why it Matters
Putin’s Victory Day address and the scaled-back celebrations reflect a significant moment in Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine, revealing both the domestic pressures facing the Kremlin and the international isolation stemming from its actions. The reduced military display underscores the challenges Russia faces on the battlefield, while the rhetoric employed by Putin signals a determination to maintain nationalistic fervour amid a costly and protracted war. In a time of escalating tensions, the outcomes of such events not only shape public perception but also influence the strategic calculations of both Russia and its adversaries on the world stage.
