Russia’s President Vladimir Putin is preparing to host a grand celebration on Friday (May 9, 2025) to mark the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. The event will be attended by leaders from China, Brazil, and other countries, making it a significant gathering.
Victory Day, which falls on May 9, is a major secular holiday in Russia and holds great importance for the nation.
The festivities will include a large parade through Red Square and various ceremonies, showcasing Moscow’s efforts to assert its influence and strengthen alliances in the face of challenges from the West, particularly amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Political analyst Nikolai Petrov highlighted the significance of this day for President Putin, emphasizing the broad coalition supporting Russia that will be on display during the celebrations.
The guest list for the event reflects Russia’s strategic priorities, with Chinese President Xi Jinping being described as the main guest. President Putin and President Xi are expected to discuss bilateral and global issues during the summit in Moscow.
China’s support for Russia has been evident, especially in the aftermath of the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The two countries have strengthened their partnership, with China emerging as a key market for Russian oil and gas, providing crucial support to Moscow.
Despite tensions with the West, both Russia and China have maintained a united front on various international issues, including condemning Western sanctions and supporting each other on key diplomatic matters.
Other notable guests at the Victory Day celebrations include Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who will be making his first official trip to Moscow since the invasion of Ukraine. The presence of leaders from European countries and other nations further underscores the global support for Russia during this event.
The festivities are expected to be attended by leaders from 29 countries, with President Putin scheduled to hold several bilateral meetings. The guest list also includes the U.S. Ambassador, although their attendance at the parade is yet to be confirmed.
While past Victory Day celebrations have seen the participation of top Western leaders, the strained relations between Russia and the West in recent years have led to a shift in attendance. Despite this, the event remains a significant occasion for Russia to showcase its alliances and garner support from a diverse range of countries.
As the world commemorates the historic victory over Nazi Germany, the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow serve as a reminder of the enduring significance of World War II and the importance of unity in the face of global challenges.
Published – May 07, 2025 04:34 pm IST
