It is difficult to overstate the importance of Victory Day in Russia, which marks the anniversary of the end of World War II.
Patriotic fervor has been increasing over the past fortnight.
Moscow has been dyed red with giant flags on almost every corner.
Buses, garbage trucks and even tractors have some reference to May 9.
On that day, a large military parade will be held in Red Square, in which troops, tanks and missile launchers will participate.
This year’s 79th anniversary isn’t exactly a major milestone; So why is it so big?
I think it can be summarized in three Ps: pain, pride and propaganda.
Grief refers to the deaths of around 27 million Soviet citizens during the defeat of Nazi Germany.
It was a collective pain of monstrous proportions (virtually every family was affected) and is still felt today.
But there is great pride in the role played by the Soviet Union. It was a time when they (along with allies) essentially ruled the world.
Now, however, many Russians feel that the West does not adequately recognize that status. This serves as a reminder.
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The Kremlin uses one war to inform opinion about another
The atmosphere this year, however, seems turbocharged, and that’s because of the last reason: propaganda.
The Kremlin is using one war to inform opinion about another: the current conflict with Ukraine.
Units of the so-called special military operation will participate in the parade, and that is not all.
In Moscow’s Victory Park there is an exhibition called Trophies.
Western tanks and armored vehicles that Russia captured on the Ukrainian battlefield are proudly displayed. Guides offer tours in English and Chinese.
Western tanks and armored vehicles captured in Ukraine are on display
‘History repeats itself’
The idea is to combine the two conflicts – World War II and the special military operation – so that the Russians see them in the same way. That heroism and sacrifice will triumph. That Russia, crucially, is on the right side of history.
It certainly seems to be working.
“I think this is not so much shown to us but to (the West), since it is written there: ‘history repeats itself,'” Sergey tells us, referring to the show’s catchphrase.
“They must embrace our strength and our right to be independent, rather than have anyone else dance to their tune.”
How different the melody was 79 years ago. Allies are now seen as enemies.