### Analysis of the celebration of the 80th anniversary of Russia’s victory over Nazism
On May 9, 2023, Russia celebrated the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazism through a large military parade on the Red Square of Moscow. This day, known as the Victory day, is the most important of the Russian lay festivals, not only marking a key moment in national history, but also an opportunity for the Kremlin to reaffirm its image on the international scene, particularly in the context of the war in Ukraine.
#### Force demonstration
The event saw the participation of more than 11,500 soldiers and 180 military vehicles, including tanks and missile launchers capable of transporting nuclear charges. The display of military capacities, supported by air demonstrations, aimed to recall both the military power of Russia and its history of fighting what it designates as threats similar to those of the past. In his speech, President Vladimir Putin supervised the current military commitment in Ukraine as a defense against Nazism and a fight against Russophobia, while he called for national unity and patriotic pride.
This celebration has also gathered several foreign leaders, including Xi Jinping de La China and Luiz Inácio Lula Da Silva of Brazil, which testifies to a will from the Kremlin to strengthen alliances in the face of relative isolation imposed by certain Western policies. However, the participation of these heads of state raises questions on current geopolitical dynamics and the way in which different nations perceive the conflict in Ukraine.
### Historical resonances and contemporary implications
The heritage of Soviet sacrifices during the Second World War is indisputable. Today’s Russia is based on this past to forge its national identity, but the interpretations of history can be controversial. By designating the Ukrainian forces, in the name of their defense of national integrity, as heirs of an oppressive ideology, the Kremlin strengthens a narrative which invites to reflect on the way in which historical events are used to justify contemporary actions.
This commemoration also takes on an additional dimension in a context of geopolitical concern. With the recent tensions in Eastern Europe and the climbing of conflicts, the parade was organized under an increased security device, testifying not only of perceived threats, in particular because of the attacks of Ukrainian drones, but also a desire to ensure control over the current narration.
#### The quest for internal and international support
The celebration of May 9 was used as a platform to consolidate internal support from the government in the face of economic and military challenges. Messages of national pride can seduce an audience wishing to feel linked to a story of unity and collective force, while making the sacrifices of the past even more relevant in the current debate on national security. With this in mind, the Russian authorities seek to solidify their influence on Russian communities abroad and to promote alliances with countries sometimes in disagreement with the West.
The choice of foreign leader present at this event also suggests a desire to assert a resistance to Western unilateralism and to build strategic partnerships which could, in the long term, counter the effects of economic and diplomatic isolation. Nevertheless, the question remains: these alliances, both geopolitical and economic, will they be sufficient to maintain Russian power and influence over the long term, especially in a rapidly evolving world?
#### Conclusion
The commemoration of the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazism is part of a complex dynamic, where history, politics and national identity intertwine. While some see in this parade a celebration of Soviet heroism, others perceive an attempt to manipulate historical symbols to legitimize present actions. This day of memory could thus encourage a reflection on the ways to take to approach international relations and peace, while highlighting the challenges of collective memory.
It is essential to consider the implications of such celebrations beyond the military show, in order to initiate a constructive dialogue on the future, both for Russia and for the world.