Russia's Parading Resilience: Celebrating Victory Amidst Growing Challenges

Despite its projected military strength, Russia faces pressing economic and diplomatic hurdles as it commemorates a past victory.

As Russia prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany, scheduled for Friday, the event is marked by an elaborate display of military power and a strategic showcase of international relations. The annual Victory Day parade in Red Square is anticipated to be the largest since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. The Kremlin aims to channel national pride from past victories into robust support for its ongoing military ambitions, particularly in the context of its contentious war against Ukraine.

Attendees, including notable world leaders, are expected to underscore Russia’s intention to project strength and continuity between historical triumph and current endeavors. “The narrative of our great victory from 80 years ago serves as a renewed framing for Russia’s current struggles with the West,” remarked Sergei Lyaguzin, an international relations expert featured on state television this week. However, a closer look reveals significant turbulence beneath the surface of this triumphant facade; Russia's military advancements have plateaued, and its economy suffers from declining oil prices, a vital revenue source.

Compounding these challenges is a notable shift in international sentiment, with key figures like President Trump signaling a departure from unwavering support for Putin and the military campaign in Ukraine. Experts like Alexander Kolyandr from the Center for European Policy Analysis observe that while the Kremlin emphasizes resilience in the face of adversity, the reality may be more precarious. They assert, “The belief in ultimate victory resides not in superiority but in the ability to withstand the longest.” Thus, as Russia stands poised to celebrate a historic victory, it must also confront the burgeoning cracks in its economic and diplomatic foundations.