


Russia Marks 80th Victory Day Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict and Global Diplomatic Push
Russia celebrated the 80th anniversary of victory in WWII with a military parade, amidst heightened security and ongoing drone attacks from Ukraine.
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Overview
On May 9, 2025, Russia celebrated the 80th anniversary of its WWII victory with a significant military parade in Moscow. President Putin welcomed a record number of global leaders, including Xi Jinping and Lula da Silva, showcasing Russia’s military might and aiming to counter Western perceptions of its isolation amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. While Putin declared a 72-hour ceasefire, fighting continued on the ground, and the event was marred by Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow. International responses included a meeting in Ukraine endorsing a special tribunal for war crimes, indicating a robust push for accountability against Russia.
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Analysis
- Russia's Victory Day parade highlighted its military strength and alliances, with the participation of various global leaders, indicating a push for global influence amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
- The 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany serves as a crucial reminder of Russia's historical significance, fostering national pride and supporting its current geopolitical stance.
- Despite the display of military might, the event faced tensions as Ukrainian drone attacks disrupted the celebrations, underscoring the ongoing war and its ramifications.
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FAQ
Notable world leaders present included Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping as the chief guest, and reports also mentioned Lula da Silva (President of Brazil), among others. Xi Jinping's presence highlighted the strengthening ties between Russia and China.
The 2025 Victory Day parade marked the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. It showcased Russia's military strength through a grand display of tanks, troops, and advanced weaponry on Red Square, serving both as a commemoration of history and a demonstration of current military capabilities amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The Ukraine conflict cast a shadow over the celebrations, with heightened security due to Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow. These attacks disrupted air travel and posed a risk to public safety, underscoring the complex and tense geopolitical context surrounding the event.
Yes, President Putin announced a 72-hour ceasefire during the Victory Day festivities. However, fighting continued in some parts of Ukraine, reflecting the fragile nature of the ceasefire and ongoing hostilities.
Unlike previous years when access was restricted, major U.S. outlets like CBS News were allowed to witness the Victory Day parade. This signaled a thaw in U.S.-Russia relations under President Trump, as the presence of Western media was seen as a diplomatic gesture.
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