Legacy of the Victory Day Celebrations in Russia
Russia commemorates the Nazi Germany defeat anniversary through grand military display - Russia honors Nazi Germany defeat anniversary through military procession
This year, the grand Victory Day Parade in Moscow marks 80 years since the end of World War II. The event, initially held on June 24, 1945, has since grown into a symbol of the Soviet Army's might, showcasing the military power on Red Square. The impressive display includes soldiers from every front of the Great Patriotic War, a term used in Russia to refer to World War II [1][2].
Back in 1945, May 9th was declared a non-working holiday, but this status was revoked in 1947. The holiday regained prominence in 1965 under Leonid Brezhnev, and parades on Red Square have occurred only on significant anniversaries since then: in 1965, 1985, and 1990 [2].
Commemorating a Historical Triumph
In contemporary Russia, the Victory Day Parade on May 9th is a vital part of the celebrations, traditionally held on Red Square and replicated in other cities. As a reminder of Russia's crucial role in World War II, the parade is a powerful catalyst for national pride and military might [1][2].
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The parade attracts several foreign leaders, signifying international acknowledgment of Russia's vital contribution to the defeat of Nazi Germany. However, Western leaders' attendance has dwindled due to geopolitical issues in recent years [1]. In contrast, leaderships from other regions, such as China and specific Eastern European and Central Asian nations, continue to take part.
The EU's Balanced Perspective
The European Union's attitude towards the Victory Day celebrations is varied. While certain EU countries value the historical significance of the Soviet Union's role in World War II, others have grown more critical of Russia's recent actions, particularly during periods of conflict. As a consequence, official EU representation at the event has diminished. Moreover, the EU occasionally condemns Russia for turning the parade into a display of military prowess and politicizing historical events [1].
In essence, the Moscow Victory Day Parade remains a keystone in Russia's historical and ideological fabric, representing a blend of national pride and international political tides. The event offers an intriguing glimpse into the continuous dance between Russia's past, present, and future on the global stage.
- In Moscow, Vladimir Putin, the chief of Russia, is set to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany with a grand military parade, just like in the previous World War II commemorations.
- Despite EU's mixed feelings towards Russia's Victory Day celebrations, some specific Eastern European and Central Asian nations continue to participate in the Moscow parade, while Western leaders have shied away due to geopolitical issues.
- The Ukrainian capital, Kiev, does not have a Victory Day Parade like Moscow, but it ends its day marking the anniversary with its own set of celebrations, albeit under a different political and historical context.
- Meanwhile, in Kremlin, the military parade is a traditional spectacle, both replicated in other cities within Russia and attracting foreign leaders, such as those from China, who acknowledge Russia's significant contribution during World War II.
