In a park near Moscow, the echoes of explosions and gunfire fill the air as crowds gather to witness a reenactment of one of the last battles for Berlin from 1945. This immersive experience, complete with the tearing down of a swastika and the raising of the Soviet flag, celebrates what the country refers to as "The Great Victory." For many, like Katya who recalls her grandfather’s untimely death during the war, this anniversary carries profound significance as they connect their family histories to the broader national narrative of resilience and struggle against adversity.
As Russia commemorates this pivotal moment in history, it simultaneously suppresses the realities of its invasion of Ukraine, framed by authorities as a modern fight against fascism, mirroring the struggle of past generations. This narrative is exacerbated by state media that overlooks critical historical contexts and promotes a sense of unity against perceived external threats.
On the eve of the anniversary, as preparations intensify for military parades showcasing Russia's strength, the public remains divided. The Kremlin's portrayal of national fortitude is challenged by the painful memories of war, echoed poignantly by individuals like 98-year-old Fyodor Melnikov. He reflects on the horrors of war while emphasizing a desire for peace and freedom.
As the solemn anniversary approaches, Russians grapple with the enduring impacts of conflict, where every celebration of victory serves as a reminder of profound losses and the complex legacy of war that continues to shape national identity.
As Russia commemorates this pivotal moment in history, it simultaneously suppresses the realities of its invasion of Ukraine, framed by authorities as a modern fight against fascism, mirroring the struggle of past generations. This narrative is exacerbated by state media that overlooks critical historical contexts and promotes a sense of unity against perceived external threats.
On the eve of the anniversary, as preparations intensify for military parades showcasing Russia's strength, the public remains divided. The Kremlin's portrayal of national fortitude is challenged by the painful memories of war, echoed poignantly by individuals like 98-year-old Fyodor Melnikov. He reflects on the horrors of war while emphasizing a desire for peace and freedom.
As the solemn anniversary approaches, Russians grapple with the enduring impacts of conflict, where every celebration of victory serves as a reminder of profound losses and the complex legacy of war that continues to shape national identity.
