Russian President Vladimir Putin used his Victory Day address on Saturday, May 9, to defend Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, describing his country’s war objectives as “just” and casting Ukraine’s military as an aggressive force backed by the entire NATO alliance.
Speaking at the annual parade on Red Square in Moscow, Putin drew a direct parallel between the ongoing war and the Soviet Union’s fight against Nazi Germany during World War II a comparison he has repeatedly invoked since the invasion began.
“The great feat of the generation of victors inspires the soldiers carrying out the goals of the special military operation today,” Putin said. “They are confronting an aggressive force armed and supported by the entire NATO bloc. And despite this, our heroes move forward.”
A Scaled-Down Parade
Victory Day, which commemorates the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in 1945, is among the most significant national events in Russia. This year’s ceremony, however, was noticeably smaller than in previous years. Repeated Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian territory in recent weeks have heightened security concerns, and for the first time in nearly two decades, no military hardware was displayed during the parade. Attendance by foreign leaders was also limited, with most guests being close Russian allies.
Three-Day Ceasefire Announced
The parade took place against the backdrop of a fragile diplomatic development. US President Donald Trump announced on Friday, May 8, a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine beginning Saturday. The truce includes a suspension of all fighting and a prisoner swap. Trump said the temporary ceasefire was announced following requests from both Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and expressed hope that negotiations to end what he called the biggest conflict in Europe since World War II were progressing.
Moscow had previously threatened a “massive” strike on central Kyiv if Ukraine disrupted the Victory Day celebrations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a decree on Friday ordering Ukrainian forces not to attack the parade. He confirmed that his government would honour the ceasefire and a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 detainees from each side. “Red Square is less important to us than the lives of Ukrainian prisoners who can be returned home,” Zelensky said.
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