Russia wrapped itself in patriotic pageantry for Victory Day, as President Vladimir Putin celebrated the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II by hailing his forces fighting in Ukraine and blasting the West for fueling conflicts around the world.

Moscow

Russia observed its annual Victory Day with traditional fervor, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. During the celebrations held in Moscow's Red Square, President Vladimir Putin took the opportunity to highlight Russia's historical military achievements while connecting them to the current situation in Ukraine. Putin praised the efforts of Russian forces engaged in Ukraine and criticized Western nations for their role in global conflicts.

In his address, Putin emphasized Russia's determination to avoid a global conflict while simultaneously warning against any threats to the nation. He asserted that Russia's strategic forces are in a perpetual state of readiness. The event saw the participation of approximately 9,000 military personnel, and notable attendees included the presidents of Cuba, Belarus, and Kazakhstan.

The day also served as a moment of honor and remembrance for the aging veterans of the war, marking 75 years since the fall of Berlin. It is remembered that the Soviet Union lost some 27 million people during World War II, a conflict that saw Nazi forces initially overrunning vast expanses of territory before being repelled back to Berlin.

Putin's speech also touched on Russia's alliances during the World War II era, contrasting the cooperation with the United States, United Kingdom, and France at that time with the current adversarial relations. He criticized Western elites for what he perceives as their arrogance and distortion of historical truths, including their portrayal of World War II events. This narrative aligns with Putin's broader rhetoric justifying Russia's actions in Ukraine as a battle against modern Nazism.



Russia celebrates World War II Victory Day

At the heart of Russia's patriotic identity, it's role in the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. This has become a pillar of President Vladimir Putin's reign and celebrated annually at Moscow's Red Square on Victory Day. This year, with tensions between Russia and the West soaring over Ukraine, the President was sure to issue a reminder of Russia's might. Russia will do everything to prevent a global clash, but at the same time, we will not allow anyone to threaten us. Our strategic forces are always on alert. 9,000 military personnel took part in the parade and Putin was joined by presidents from countries such as Cuba, Belarus and Kazakhstan. For the few veterans that remain alive 75 years after Berlin fell, the day is sure to be one of honour and remembrance. Estimates say some 27 million people from the Soviet Union were lost in the war. Nazi troops overran much of the territory before being driven back to Berlin. But if the US, UK and France were among Russia's allies then, they are now on opposite sides. Putin used his speech to accuse Western elites of being arrogant, of distorting the truth of World War II and putting traitors of Nazis on pedestals. Part of his rhetoric that he has repeatedly used to justify the invasion of Ukraine and frame it as an existential battle against Nazism.

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