Putin Showcases Military Might at Victory Day Parade Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict

Pool photo by Pavel Bednyak

Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany with an elaborate Victory Day parade in Moscow's Red Square. The event, presided over by President Vladimir Putin, featured over 11,500 troops and 180 military vehicles, including nuclear missiles and drones, symbolizing Russia's military power. The celebration showcased Russia's resilience amidst its ongoing conflict in Ukraine, now in its fourth year, and countered Western efforts to isolate Moscow.

High-profile world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, attended, underscoring Russia's global alliances. Putin praised Russian troops in Ukraine and used the event to bolster nationalism and justify his foreign policy. Security was heightened due to recent Ukrainian drone attacks, which disrupted Moscow airports.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping watch Russian service members marching past during a flower-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Victory Day, marking the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, in central Moscow, Russia, May 9, 2025. REUTERS/Evgenia Novozhenina

Simultaneously, in Lviv, Ukraine, European officials endorsed the creation of a tribunal to prosecute alleged Russian war crimes, with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy calling for accountability. Despite a unilateral 72-hour Russian ceasefire, Ukrainian regions faced continued Russian strikes, further intensifying international criticism.

Russia's BMD-4M infantry fighting vehicles drive during a military parade on Victory Day, marking the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two, in Red Square in central Moscow, Russia, May 9, 2025. REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov

This Victory Day highlighted Russia's efforts to project strength and legitimacy while provoking continued geopolitical tensions.