Moscow Celebrates 80th Anniversary of Victory Over Nazi Germany with Military Parade

On May 9, Moscow commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II with a grand military parade held at Red Square. This event marks the fourth military display in Moscow since the onset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, drawing criticism from Kyiv, which regards the parade as a cynical show of power amidst ongoing conflict.

As part of the ceremonies, the Russian government has implemented heightened security measures due to recent threats from Ukraine, which has stated its intention not to adhere to a truce declared by President Vladimir Putin. The increased military activity has been noted with recent drone incursions into Russian airspace, prompting both military personnel and attendees at the parade to be more vigilant.

Despite Russia announcing a three-day ceasefire for the celebrations, Ukraine has proposed a 30-day ceasefire as a prerequisite for potential peace negotiations. Reports from the front lines indicate that the ceasefire has had little effect, with Ukraine accusing Russian forces of numerous violations. In response, the Russian Defense Ministry maintains that its military is strictly adhering to the ceasefire order while only retaliating against Ukrainian attacks.

In conjunction with the parade, a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Lviv, Ukraine, is set to reaffirm support for Ukraine, including a planned EUR1 billion aid package for its defense industry. This initiative, mentioned by EU chief diplomat Kaja Kallas, is a collaborative effort involving several member states, including participation from the newly appointed German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who arrived in Ukraine shortly before the meeting.

The anticipated military display in Moscow is expected to feature around 10,000 participants, including soldiers from various nations and personnel involved in the Ukraine conflict. The parade will showcase a range of military hardware, including tanks, air defense systems, and missile systems, alongside a flight demonstration by Russian fighter jets.

Traditionally celebrated on May 9, the day signifies the second signing of the German surrender, which took place late into the night of May 8. This date has been adopted by many former Soviet states as a Day of Victory.

In light of the ongoing war, the absence of Western leaders at the parade is notable, with only Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic expected to attend. China's President Xi Jinping is also anticipated to join Putin as a significant guest.

Amidst these developments, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been in communication with U.S. President Donald Trump, discussing the situation on the front lines and expressing readiness for a 30-day ceasefire to facilitate peace talks. Trump has publicly supported Ukraine's call for a ceasefire and threatened further sanctions against Russia if the ceasefire is not respected.

Additionally, the UK government is intensifying pressure on Putin by announcing sanctions targeting Russia's "shadow fleet," which includes up to 100 oil tankers believed to be integral to the nation's oil transport operations.