Each year on May 9, Russia marks the anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union over Nazi Germany in World War II. In 2023, the parade and other celebrations were scaled back because of what Russia called security concerns, no doubt arising from the war with Ukraine that was ongoing at that time. The 2023 speech was shorter than normal, and the parade featured no military flyby, as has been customary, and no showcase of modern tanks. The speech called attention to the historical significance of the day and justified the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Putin addressed his troops fighting in Ukraine, arguing that war had been unleashed against Russia by “Western globalist elites.” The purpose of the speech was not only to rouse a spirit of patriotism among his listeners but also to defend Russia’s actions in Ukraine.