Victory Day, observed each May 9 in Russia, celebrates the Soviet Union’s World War II victory over Nazi Germany. The national holiday honors the sacrifices of Soviet troops and civilians during what Joseph Stalin renamed the “Great Patriotic War.” Here’s a look at the history behind Victory Day and how it has evolved.
Why is Victory Day so significant in Russia?
Victory Day is Russia's most significant non-religious holiday, according to The New York Times. The Soviet Union suffered 24 million casualties during the war, including soldiers and civilians—one of the highest death tolls of any nation. For Russians, the May 9 holiday symbolizes resilience, sacrifice and patriotism.
What is the story behind Victory Day in Russia?
While Victory Day specifically commemorates Russia’s role in World War II, the United States and Western allies observe Victory in Europe (V-E) Day on May 8, because, although Nazi Germany officially surrendered on May 7, 1945, the Allies did not confirm it until May 8. However, according to Time, Stalin was angered that the initial surrender happened at Reims rather than Berlin, which was under Russian control. Consequently, Russia declared Victory Day on May 9, following the official Berlin surrender, signed just after midnight. The time zone difference meant it was already May 9 in Moscow.
How is Victory Day celebrated?
Russians commemorate Victory Day with a large military parade in Moscow’s Red Square, ceremonies and elaborate fireworks displays in large cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg. Another traditional rite is a march called the Immortal Regiment, where citizens carry photos of veterans who died during the war. Although COVID-19 and Russia’s war in Ukraine have caused it to be scaled back in size in recent years, it returned in full force in 2024, The Associated Press reports.
How have Russia’s celebrations changed over time?
After the initial 1945 celebration, Stalin soon downplayed Victory Day, wanting Russians to forget about World War II, the Moscow Times reports. Observances waned until 1965, when Leonid Brezhnev reinstated it as a national holiday. According to the BBC, following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, former President Boris Yeltsin brought back the Victory Day parade in 1995 to commemorate its 50th anniversary. Since his election in 2000, President Vladimir Putin has delivered a Victory Day speech during celebrations that have involved increasing displays of military might and messages of nationalism.
