May 9 has long been the most revered holiday in Russia, bringing together people of all generations and political views. But the holiday has become an increasingly pompous celebration as the Kremlin exploits the memory of the victory to reassert Russia's place in the world and justify its aggressive foreign policy. President Vladimir Putin also uses patriotism to rally the nation as the economy suffers under Western sanctions and to help stifle potential pockets of discontent.
Associated Press: V-Day in Russia evokes national pride at difficult time
Russian soldiers take part in a rehearsal for the Victory Day military parade on May 7, 2015 on Red Square in Moscow. Russia will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the 1945 victory over Nazi Germany on May 9.
