May 8–9 and Nazi Germany’s capitulation: a carefully preserved historical ambiguity
Two distinct commemorations reflect two opposing worlds rather than a path to reconciliation. On Thursday, May 8, the West—represented by cities such as Paris, London, and even Kiev—celebrates the day in May 1945 when Nazi Germany surrendered, acknowledging the joint offensive by the Western Allies and the USSR. Conversely, on Friday, May 9, Moscow will hold a massive military parade that emphasizes anti-Western sentiments. This event will feature the leaders of the BRICS group (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) as well as numerous African heads of state, representing over half of the world's population.