In the town of Dubna, located just eighty miles from Moscow, reenactments of World War II battles bring the past to life amid contemporary tensions. Explosions echo as a crowd watches soldiers simulate the storming of Berlin, emblematic of Russia's enduring narrative of triumph in the face of tyranny. This year's commemorations take on special significance as Russia marks the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany, a pivotal moment in the nation's history referred to as the Great Victory.
Among those attending is Katya, whose family history intertwines war and sacrifice. Her grandfather was reported missing during the conflict and later revealed to have been killed. Today, her son joins the front lines in Ukraine, a decision she tried to dissuade him from, reflecting the complexities within families shaped by a legacy of conflict. She shares her profound connection to history—one that is reflected across the nation as Russians gather to honor the memory of 27 million lives lost during the Great Patriotic War.
Despite its past victories, Russia now faces a reality where the invasion of Ukraine is framed by the Kremlin as a defensive operation against a resurgence of fascism. This narrative is bolstered by state-controlled media, which emphasizes historical grievances and portrays Russia as a victim of Western aggression. Analysts argue that the ongoing conflict is portrayed as part of Russia's long-standing battle against external threats, marking an ideological shift where the Great Patriotic War serves as a pretext for contemporary military actions.
As the country braces for Victory Day celebrations on May 9, the imagery of past and present intertwines. Monuments honoring soldiers of both World War II and current conflicts are unveiled, while newborns are dressed in Red Army garments—a symbolic link to Russia’s martial past. The Kremlin emphasizes the importance of remembrance and national pride, juxtaposed against ongoing military operations that have not achieved the swift outcomes anticipated.
With an expected military parade attended by world leaders, security becomes paramount amid fears of Ukrainian attacks. While some Russians feel besieged by the West, voices of caution emerge, echoing the sentiments of 98-year-old veteran Fyodor Melnikov, who laments the horrors of war and advocates for a world where people can live in peace.
As the nation prepares to commemorate its past, it grapples with the weight of history and the pressing realities of present conflicts—a poignant reminder that the legacy of war affects generations long after the battles have ceased.
Among those attending is Katya, whose family history intertwines war and sacrifice. Her grandfather was reported missing during the conflict and later revealed to have been killed. Today, her son joins the front lines in Ukraine, a decision she tried to dissuade him from, reflecting the complexities within families shaped by a legacy of conflict. She shares her profound connection to history—one that is reflected across the nation as Russians gather to honor the memory of 27 million lives lost during the Great Patriotic War.
Despite its past victories, Russia now faces a reality where the invasion of Ukraine is framed by the Kremlin as a defensive operation against a resurgence of fascism. This narrative is bolstered by state-controlled media, which emphasizes historical grievances and portrays Russia as a victim of Western aggression. Analysts argue that the ongoing conflict is portrayed as part of Russia's long-standing battle against external threats, marking an ideological shift where the Great Patriotic War serves as a pretext for contemporary military actions.
As the country braces for Victory Day celebrations on May 9, the imagery of past and present intertwines. Monuments honoring soldiers of both World War II and current conflicts are unveiled, while newborns are dressed in Red Army garments—a symbolic link to Russia’s martial past. The Kremlin emphasizes the importance of remembrance and national pride, juxtaposed against ongoing military operations that have not achieved the swift outcomes anticipated.
With an expected military parade attended by world leaders, security becomes paramount amid fears of Ukrainian attacks. While some Russians feel besieged by the West, voices of caution emerge, echoing the sentiments of 98-year-old veteran Fyodor Melnikov, who laments the horrors of war and advocates for a world where people can live in peace.
As the nation prepares to commemorate its past, it grapples with the weight of history and the pressing realities of present conflicts—a poignant reminder that the legacy of war affects generations long after the battles have ceased.
