On May 9, 2025, the Russian Federation solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of Russia’s Victory Day over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War, an event of great historical significance, marking the resilience and patriotism of the Russian people as well as the people of the former Soviet Union.
Historical and political significance of Victory Day
September 5, 2025, marks the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in the Great Patriotic War (1941–1945). The day has deep historical significance as it commemorates the Soviet Union’s great victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, commemorates the great sacrifices made, and demonstrates the patriotism and heroism of the Russian people. Politically, the holiday reinforces nationalism, demonstrates Russia’s military might and international standing, and is an occasion to convey important political messages about history and the future.
Parade in Red Square
The parade on Moscow’s Red Square in 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of Russia’s Victory Day, is expected to be the largest ever, with 19 countries taking part. The event will include military parades, displays of equipment, speeches by leaders, and moments of silence.
With more than 10,000 servicemen and hundreds of pieces of modern military equipment on display, including advanced weapons such as T-90M tanks, Iskander and S-400 missile systems, and Yars intercontinental ballistic missiles, the event has significant political significance and will also demonstrate solidarity between nations while honoring history and conveying a message of peace.
Presence of international leaders
This year’s event attracted the participation of 29 leaders and high-ranking representatives from many countries, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam. The large number of international leaders attending the event, in the context of Russia facing sanctions and isolation from the West, shows Moscow’s efforts to strengthen and expand foreign relations with countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
International leaders attending this major event show respect, support, and strengthen bilateral relations; affirm alliances/partnerships; send political messages; and increase cultural exchanges.
Security situation before and during the celebration
Situation before the anniversary
Russia has tightened security in the days leading up to the holiday due to the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Just days before May 9, dozens of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) believed to be from Ukraine were shot down by Russian air defenses in the Moscow region and surrounding provinces. A major air base in Kubinka was also attacked, forcing the cancellation of several air shows.
Current situation
Moscow security has increased air defenses (Pantsir-S1, S-400), disrupted mobile internet, restricted traffic, monitored UAVs, banned fireworks, implemented strict physical controls, deployed heavy security forces, and possibly electronic neutralization. The goal is to deter threats, especially from UAVs.
The Russian government has vowed to ensure the safety of the celebrations and has vowed to retaliate if attacked on this important day.
Developments between Russia and Ukraine at this time
Fierce fighting on multiple fronts (Sumy, Kharkiv, Donetsk), Russia stepped up missile and UAV attacks, and Ukraine responded. Russia used new tactics, and Russian air defense systems were activated. Moscow warned that it would retaliate if Ukraine attacked on May 9.
While Russia showed goodwill by proposing a 3-day ceasefire around the anniversary, Ukraine rejected this proposal and proposed a 30-day ceasefire, but with specific conditions. This escalated the conflict during the holiday and affected the celebrations in Russia.
Message from President Vladimir Putin
Speaking at the ceremony, President Vladimir Putin stressed that the 1945 victory is an immortal symbol of the courage, sacrifice, and unity of the Soviet people. In particular, in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, his speeches often linked the current situation to the fight against fascism and affirmed Russia’s determination to achieve the goals of the “special military operation.” At the same time, he sent a message to the international community that peace is not an easy achievement and must be maintained by collective will and responsibility.
International significance and message of peace
May 9 is not only an occasion to remember history but also an opportunity for Russia to demonstrate its national identity, military strength, and internal unity in the context of external pressure, with many countries expressing recognition of history and a desire for friendly relations with Russia. The core message of peace is to remind people of the cruelty of war and the value of peace.