Russia’s Victory Day
May 9 is celebrated as “Victory Day” in Russia.
Why Victory day is celebrated?
To commemorate the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany in World War II. It was first celebrated in 1965 under Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev. It was occasionally marked in the Soviet era and revived by President Boris Yeltsin for the 50th anniversary in 1995. In 2008, Vladimir Putin made it an annual event featuring military hardware. 2022 marks the 77th anniversary.
How is it celebrated?
Victory Day is marked by a military parade in Moscow, and Russian leaders traditionally stand on the tomb of Vladimir Lenin in Red Square to observe it.
When did Germany invade USSR?
On June 22, 1941, the German army began its invasion of the Soviet Union.
What is the code name of the invasion?
Operation Barbarossa is the code name for the German invasion of the Soviet Union.
Why did Germany invade USSR?
To conquer the western Soviet Union and create more Lebensraum (living space) for Germany. Nazi Germany aimed to eventually exterminate the indigenous Slavic peoples by mass deportation to Siberia and repopulated the western Soviet Union with the Germans.
Why did Germany got defeated?
Hitler arrogantly believed the war would last no longer than three months; his soldiers did not even bother to bring winter clothes. By 1943, the Germans’ rapid advance collapsed under the weight of the fierce Russian winter and partisan guerrillas.
Why this year’s victory day is significant?
This year the victory day event gained significance as Russia is actively engaged in a military conflict with Ukraine. It is believed that Putin might try to leverage the symbolism of the day to make a key announcement. It is expected that Putin may either declare success in Ukraine or escalate the “military operation” in Ukraine.
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Month: Current Affairs - May, 2022
Category: International / World Current Affairs