MOSCOW (RUSSIA) – Russian President Vladimir Putin is slated to review a stunning Red Square military parade later on Wednesday on the eve of a nationwide poll that is likely to extend his rule until 2036. Critics say the display is aimed at lifting his lower than usual ratings.
The parade, which commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s World War Two victory over the Nazis, was postponed from May 9 because of the novel coronavirus outbreak and critics say it is irresponsible to go ahead with it now.
However, the Kremlin has dismissed that, saying new daily infections, though still in the thousands, are on the wane, especially in Moscow, the original epicentre of the outbreak, and that all safety measures will be put in place.
While opening a military cathedral on Monday, Putin said the Soviet wartime victory remained a touchstone for modern Russia, terming it a sacred memory.
“It’s always with us and gives us strength, strength to serve our country and moral messages which we do not have the right to resile from and will never do so,” said Putin.
Survey results released by state pollster VTsIOM on Tuesday showed that 95% of Russians regarded the 1945 Soviet victory as the most important event of the 20th century for the country.
The vote from June 25 until July 1 on constitutional changes, including an amendment that allow Putin two more six-year terms as president if re-elected. At present, constitutional limits bar him from seeking re-election when his mandate ends in 2024.
State pollster VTsIOM has predicted that 67-71% of voters will endorse the changes.
Putin’s approval rating is 59%, according to Levada, an independent pollster whose research the Kremlin has said it is not inclined to trust. Though high by most countries’ standards, it is at its lowest since 1999.
More than 14,000 troops, over 200 armoured vehicles and 75 aircraft will take part in Wednesday’s parade, which will also feature representatives from 13 countries.
(Photos syndicated via Reuters)
This story has been edited by BH staff and is published from a syndicated field