On the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany, Russia held a grand military parade in Moscow’s Red Square, showcasing its military power in what has become the largest display since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war.
Chinese President Xi Jinping stood alongside President Vladimir Putin, underscoring the deepening Russia-China alliance.
Over 11,500 troops participated in the event, along with cutting-edge weaponry, drones, and nuclear-capable missiles. President Putin linked the historic victory in WWII to current events in Ukraine, declaring Russia a stronghold against “Nazism, Russophobia, and anti-Semitism,” and reaffirmed that the so-called “special military operation” in Ukraine has full national backing.
The parade featured combat drones for the first time, reflecting their extensive use in Ukraine. Russia declared a unilateral three-day ceasefire for the occasion, which Ukraine dismissed as “theatrical,” accusing Moscow of continuing attacks during the truce.
President Xi’s presence was seen as a strong symbol of support, with Chinese troops participating and Xi donning the Saint George ribbon, a Russian military honor. Russian state media called the event a sign of the two nations’ alliance reaching “historic highs,” especially in the face of Western tensions.
Military contingents from North Korea, Vietnam, and Mongolia were also present, although North Korean troops did not march. Ukraine accused Russia of carrying out hundreds of strikes during the declared ceasefire allegations that Moscow denied.
The event served as a demonstration of Russia’s military might and its strategic partnerships amid ongoing geopolitical friction with the West.
