President Vladimir Putin delivered a potent message during this year's Victory Day speech.
The annual event, steeped in the memory of World War II victory, served not only as a remembrance but also as a platform for Putin to reassert Russia’s formidable stance against perceived Western aggression.
Putin criticized what he perceives as Western attempts to distort the historical truth of World War II.
He argued that such distortions serve the interests of those engaging in colonial politics today.
"Revanchism, mockery of history, and attempts to justify the followers of today's Nazis are part of the general policy of the Western elites," declared Putin.
Strategic Forces at the Ready
In a clear signal to the international community, Putin emphasized Russia's strategic capabilities.
"Russia will do everything to prevent a global clash, but at the same time, we will not allow anyone to threaten us. Our strategic forces are always combat-ready," he stated firmly.
The typically grandiose parade saw noticeably fewer attendees this year. Only leaders from nations often regarded as outcasts, alongside Central Asian republics of the former USSR, stood with Putin. Notably absent was Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, despite being in Moscow, signaling possible strains even within allied relations.
The military showcase at the parade was subdued this year, with only one tank participating—a stark reminder of the heavy losses reported by Oryx, with 9,000 units of military hardware said to have been lost in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Nevertheless, the skies above Red Square were pierced by the roar of 15 military aircraft.
Joint Military Exercises with Belarus
Adding to the day's severe undertone, Putin announced upcoming joint military exercises with Belarus, involving tactical nuclear weapons. This move, articulated as a response to the "escalatory course" of the U.S. and its allies, was highlighted by Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov as a necessary step in reinforcing Russia’s deterrence strategies.
As the celebrations concluded, the message from Moscow was clear: Russia positions itself as a fortified bulwark against Western pressures, ready to deploy its vast military capabilities if threatened.
