The article analyzes the Russian military parade in Moscow on Victory Day, highlighting its discrepancies with the reality of Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.
The parade's guest list lacked significant Western representation, with the notable exception of China, whose presence is seen as a betrayal of its role as a potential mediator in the conflict.
Military expert Marcel Berni points out that the displayed weaponry contrasts sharply with the realities of the war, suggesting a show of strength rather than genuine military capability. The article mentions shortages of armored personnel carriers and the use of civilian vehicles to transport troops. The placement of decoy air defense systems in eastern Russia also indicates a lack of resources.
Putin's speech is criticized for its blatant distortion of historical facts and justification of the war. The article highlights the manipulation of the narrative surrounding World War II to portray the Ukraine conflict as a necessary defense against fascism.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's counter-speech emphasizes the need to actively confront evil rather than appease it, contrasting sharply with Putin's narrative. He showcases the rebuilding of Kyiv, highlighting the resilience of Ukraine and rejecting Putin's historical revisionism.