Putin's Patriotic Military Display: A Show of Strength for Russia

This year's Victory Day parade in Moscow highlighted Russia’s military might and nostalgia for its Soviet past, showcasing modern artillery alongside a blend of historical significance and contemporary geopolitics.

In a significant display of military pride, Russia marked the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany with a grand spectacle in Moscow’s Red Square on Friday. The elaborate parade, aimed at reinforcing national pride and asserting Moscow's strength both to allies and adversaries, showcased over 180 pieces of military hardware. The strategic display featured artillery systems and drones employed in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, as more than 11,500 dressed service members rallied past the Kremlin with fervent cheers of “Hurrah!”

The event drew foreign dignitaries, including Egypt’s foreign minister, Badr Abdelatty, who expressed enthusiasm for the impressive show of might. This year's parade was the most extensive in recent history, reinforcing Russia's narrative of triumph over historical adversaries while fostering a deep sense of national identity.

Having been born in Siberia during the Soviet period, I felt a complex blend of emotions, viewing the grandiosity of an event likened to ones of my childhood, where local celebrations were far more modest yet filled with the same spirit of resilience. Since the Soviet Union’s disintegration in 1991, the remembrance of this significant victory has been a cornerstone in Russia's nation-building narrative, shaping a collective memory of resilience and strength in the face of adversity. The Victory Day parade not only underscores this myth but highlights the ongoing evolution of Russian military capabilities against the backdrop of a modern geopolitical landscape.