Russia Holds 80th Victory Day Parade Amid Drone Attacks, Global Leaders Attend

Russia commemorated the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany with a large military parade in Moscow's Red Square, attended by President Vladimir Putin and international dignitaries such as Chinese President Xi Jinping, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Victory Day on May 9 is Russia's most significant secular holiday, used by the Kremlin to promote national pride and underline Russia's global stature, especially amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The celebrations were overshadowed by Ukrainian drone attacks on Moscow, causing severe disruptions including flight cancellations and heightened security measures, with authorities implementing electronic countermeasures to prevent further attacks. In a related move, Putin declared a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire for the Victory Day period, contrasting with a longer truce proposed by the US but rejected by Russia. The parade also featured Azerbaijani servicemen, highlighting the international presence at the event and Moscow's efforts to strengthen alliances as a counterbalance to Western opposition. Overall, the Victory Day events reflect Russia's continued emphasis on its historical legacy and geopolitical positioning amid current tensions.