The Great Patriotic War is one of the most brutal and heroic standoffs in the human history. In this war, people and the Red Army of the Soviet Union, together with global progressive forces, rose up against fascism. The Soviet Red Army’s victory on May 9, 1945 became a powerful symbol of the anti-fascist spirit and the liberation of humanity from the disaster of genocide.
On December 12, 1986, under a decree by the Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, the Soviet Union posthumously awarded the first-class Patriotic War Order and the order commemorating the 40th anniversary of the victory to the seven Vietnamese volunteer soldiers participating in the defense of Moscow in the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945).
    |
 |
The Vietnam People’s Army delegation in a full-dress rehearsal of the Red Square Parade. |
Vietnam has always valued and taken pride in its contribution to the victory over fascism, seeing it as an inseparable part of the nation's revolutionary struggle.
From the experience of former generations in the resistance wars against foreign invaders, Vietnam deeply understands the value of peace and the spirit of international solidarity. Since becoming a member of the U.N. in 1977, Vietnam has consistently made active contribution to common efforts for peace and development in the region and the world.
In recent years, Vietnam has strongly demonstrated its sense of responsibility in maintaining peace and has made significant contribution to the international community by deploying troops to participate in U.N. peacekeeping missions. Meanwhile, Vietnam has been among the earliest countries to participate in search and rescue missions following earthquakes in Myanmar and Turkey, assisting the nations in earthquake recovery efforts.
All of the above affirms Vietnam’s steadfast and consistent foreign policy of being “a friend, a reliable partner, and an active and responsible member of the international community.” From fighting for justice to serving humanity, Vietnamese soldiers have always embodied the spirit and ideals of “Uncle Ho’s soldiers,” brave on the battlefield and humane in peacetime.
Vietnam’s participation in the military parade marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War in Russia in 2025 is a continuation of the proud history and fine traditions. This event serves as a reminder of history’s valuable lesson: to protect peace, nations must be united; to prevent war, we must resolutely combat all forms of aggression, extremism, and hatred.
Through many ups and downs, Vietnam has remained steadfast in standing on the side of peace and justice. From a war-torn country, Vietnam has risen to become an active and responsible member of the international community, contributing to the humanity’s common cause of building a peaceful, just, and sustainable world.
With that spirit, Vietnam reaffirms its commitment to join progressive humanity in taking concrete actions toward a better future - where the flag of peace, independence, and sustainable development continues to fly in the world’s sky.
Translated by Quynh Oanh