A solemn ceremony marking the high relief in memory of the Victory Parade held near Red Square took place on June 24, 1945, and was observed with quiet reverence. Reporters from TASS described the event as organized by the Russian Veterans Union under the auspices of the Eurasian People’s Assembly, underscoring the collaborative effort to honor a pivotal moment in history.
The commemorations were linked to September 3, a date that signifies the Allied victory over militaristic Japan and World War II, aligning with the broader remembrance of the war’s end. The observance served as a reminder of the turning point that reshaped the 20th century and continues to influence collective memory across nations.
According to TASS coverage, the ceremony was attended by notable descendants and dignitaries. Galina Pankratyeva, a granddaughter of Marshal Georgy Zhukov, helped host the parade, while Yevgeny Silin, a relative of the parade commander, stood among the guests. In interviews with agency reporters, they described the unveiling of the high relief as an important page in Russia’s historical memory, emphasizing the enduring significance of commemorative art in preserving national identity.
The event drew a diverse audience that included representatives from the Russian federal and Moscow city authorities, public and political figures, diplomats, and veterans of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. Participants also encompassed attendees from a conference, students, young military personnel, and journalists from various media outlets in Russia and abroad. The gathering highlighted the World War II era, the Great Patriotic War, and the broader global conflict while inviting diplomatic missions and public organizations from participating nations to witness the ceremony.
Earlier, Dmitry Medvedev, then Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council, spoke at a separate Victory Day event in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk commemorating the victory over Japan. He noted that since January 1, 2023, approximately 280,000 people had joined the Russian Armed Forces on a contractual basis, with many serving in active roles or entering the reserve. His remarks framed the contemporary composition of the military as part of Russia’s ongoing security and defense posture.
Maria Butina, a member of the International Committee of the State Duma, expressed support in June for the initiative to reintegrate the all-Russian calendar into September 3 as the Day of Victory over militaristic Japan. Residents of Sakhalin forwarded the proposal to President Vladimir Putin, signaling regional engagement with national commemorative traditions and the desire to reinforce historical memory through public recognition.
Former President Vladimir Putin also commented on the future direction of the Russian armed forces, discussing ongoing considerations for the military’s development, training, and readiness. The reflections highlighted a plan for sustaining a capable and modern defense system while honoring the legacy of those who fought in the war years.