Moscow celebrated Victory Day with a grand military parade and festivities

 

Moscow celebrated Victory Day with a grand military parade and festivities, but the mood was mixed. Thousands attended the traditional parade, watching troops march and military vehicles roll by. Some wore military uniforms and held Soviet flags, while others carried signs celebrating the defeat of fascism.

For many, the holiday was a celebration of Russian unity and patriotism. Nikolai, who attended the parade with a photo of his veteran grandfather, said, "The heart of a Russian patriot demands that he take part in this holiday... Victory Day is even more important for me now."

President Vladimir Putin framed the war in Ukraine as an extension of Russia's struggle against fascism in World War II. In his speech, he said, "Russia is going through a difficult, critical period... We bow our heads to the veterans of the Great Patriotic War... Victory Day unites all generations."

Many Russians shared this sentiment, with Vyacheslav saying, "We came to celebrate a great holiday for all of us, for our entire country. Today is our day of unity, a day of our grandparents, our relatives, our country."

However, for others, the celebration was a bitter reminder of the ongoing war. A group of mobilized soldiers' relatives laid flowers at a World War II memorial park, symbolizing their resistance and calling for the return of their loved ones from the front. Put Domoi, the organizing group, said, "Today is a day of sorrow for us, not a parade with fanfare."

Security measures were boosted in Moscow, with increased law enforcement and metal detectors in public spaces. Immortal Regiment processions were moved online for safety reasons. Despite this, thousands attended the parade, and the day still symbolized national unity for many.

Nikolai said, "The patriotic feelings coming out today nurture us throughout the year and enable us to continue the work of our forefathers, to cherish Russia as the most powerful and benevolent country... Russia is the final bastion of humanity."

Yet, for some, the celebration was tinged with sadness and concern about the ongoing war. A woman said, "Victory Day used to be one of my favorite holidays, but now it holds a different meaning... Now it reminds me of today's events."

Overall, Moscow's Victory Day celebration was a complex mix of patriotism, unity, and unease, reflecting the country's ongoing conflict and the diverse emotions it evokes.