Context:

In Russia, the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War Two is being commemorated with elaborate historical re-enactments and public displays, emphasizing the narrative of Russia as both a victor and victim. This narrative is being used to draw parallels between the Great Patriotic War and the current conflict in Ukraine, which the Kremlin portrays as a continuation of the fight against fascism. Despite the ongoing war in Ukraine and significant casualties, the portrayal of Russia as an invincible nation persists, supported by state-controlled media and public events. The celebrations are steeped in symbolism and national pride, serving as a means to unite the Russian people around a shared historical identity. However, the current situation in Ukraine contrasts sharply with past victories, highlighting the complexities and tragic costs of war, as remembered by individuals like Fyodor Melnikov, who lost family in past conflicts.

Dive Deeper:

• Eighty miles from Moscow, a historical re-enactment of the 1945 Battle for Berlin takes place, drawing large crowds and symbolizing the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany, which remains a crucial part of Russian national identity.

• Katya, a spectator, reflects on her family's history of wartime involvement, with her grandfather having died in World War Two and her son currently fighting in Ukraine, illustrating the generational impact of conflict on Russian families.

• The Russian government frames the current military operation in Ukraine as a continuation of World War Two, despite international condemnation, by portraying Russia as a victim of Western aggression and framing the conflict as a fight against 'Eurofascism'.

• State-controlled media plays a crucial role in perpetuating the narrative of historical and ongoing wars, omitting certain historical facts like the 1939 non-aggression pact, and using iconography to connect past and present wars.

• Victory Day celebrations are a major national event under Vladimir Putin, featuring military parades and public displays that emphasize Russian strength and resilience, despite ongoing challenges in the Ukraine conflict.

• A new monument in Khimki symbolizes the connection between past and present wars, depicting soldiers from World War Two and the current conflict in Ukraine, reinforcing the idea of preserving history to defend the future.

• Fyodor Melnikov, a 98-year-old war veteran, recalls the personal losses of war, emphasizing the human cost and advocating for peace, as Russia prepares to celebrate the 80th anniversary of its World War Two victory with both pride and remembrance.