On May 8 1945, the Instrument of Surrender was signed by Nazi Germany in the late evening. The end of World War II began to be celebrated in Moscow after midnight, thus on May 9.
The Soviet government of that time announced the auspicious date as Victory Day after the signing ceremony in Berlin to mark the surrender for years to come.
While most European countries celebrate on May 8, the Russian Federation and many former states of Soviet Union such as Armenia, Kazakhstan, Serbia, etc. recognize May 9 as the date of joyful occasion. Â
 Remembrance of Victory and Liberation
The aforementioned date has surprisingly assumed relevance in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine where Russia is carrying out an invasion. According to intelligence cited by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Russia intends to finish the war or at the very least, claim a victory by taking control of a significant region of Ukraine.
The deadline for the task is considered to be May 9, which could allow the Russian government to take advantage of the victory coinciding with the symbolic holiday. Â
Despite numerous attempts and offensives, Russia is yet to take control of any major city in Ukraine. Despite having superior arms and a high number of armed forces, the military superpower has repeatedly failed in its objectives, including the capture of Ukraine capital Kyiv.
Vladimir Putin and his generals have been severely humiliated as many global powers are starting to realize the true state of Russian forces. Â
New Phase in War
However, the war continues to drag on in Mariupol where the Russians have besieged the port city. Since the beginning of the war, Ukrainians have been praised for their resilience against the occupying enemy. But the situation has turned dire after continuous fire from missiles and shelling.
With no food, water and medical aid, tens of thousands have died and many more may follow. The Russian forces have provided an ultimatum to surrender but it is unlikely that Ukrainian soldiers still holding the last lines of defence will surrender without a fight. Â
Many experts believe that the imminent fall of Mariupol could become the marketing weapon against the Russian public, who will be heading out onto the streets to burst crackers in remembrance of the nation’s fight against Hitler.
In a significant move, Russian forces had also pulled back and regrouped in order to strike in the regions of Donbas, with an intent to take control of the eastern part of the country. Â
Such a tactic is not surprising as Russia has continuously used symbols from the very beginning of this conflict. Two of the infamous examples are the ‘Z’ and ‘V’ signs that are painted on Russian military vehicles as a way to distinguish them.
The letters have also been used by civilians to show their support for President Vladimir Putin and his war in a major propaganda campaign. Another symbol is the Ribbon of St. George which includes yellow and black stripes as part of a military medal.
All of these have been banned by Ukraine, Lithuania, Moldova and many other states in an attempt to restrict their use by those who are in support of the pointless war. Â
Conclusion
On May 9, millions of Russians will commemorate the holiday by observing military parade or march by soldiers. The late-night sky will be bright with colors and shouts of laughter will echo throughout the country.
But the irony will only become clear when time has passed and the casualties inflicted will come to haunt the very people who had suffered the same not long ago.Â
Author :Â M. Uma Mahesh
Publishd by: Sachin Sonawane
